I Hate Dialysis Message Board
Introduction => The IHD Family - Our Members => Topic started by: okarol on June 07, 2013, 01:50:01 AM
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Discussion of meet up proposed for UK. :2thumbsup; :2thumbsup; :2thumbsup;
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Im in the UK :)
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Hi lainiepop Would Cambridge be accessible for a weekend?
I think London would be too expensive but Cambridge has some reasonable hotels and a great place to wander around.
Also it would help if you indicated when you are available for a get together...
:waving; Hello all you English people on here!
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Would love to meet up! :2thumbsup; (I'm in Devon)
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Whereabouts in Devon r u lou? My parents live in Plymouth, that s where we had the tx op. I'm in Dorset now, Bournemouth by the sea :)
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Hi lainiepop, im in Exeter so we are not massively far apart! :)
I had my transplant 3 years ago in Bristol when I was 29, so we are not far apart in age either are we? Hope all is going well with you, would love it if we could all sort some type of meet up xx
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Hey Lou i did my degree at Exeter uni and still pop in there on Way to and from Plym sometimes!
l was 31 in march ;D
x
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:bump;
Come on, we have more Brits than this on here! Don't be shy!
Since we already have a proposed venue (thank you, Sugarlump), what dates work for everyone? July, August? Any thoughts? Any particular day of the week that works best for most? Richard has to book his plane ticket, so I'm sure he'd appreciate us getting back to him with a date ASAP! :rofl;
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I would love to go to the UK meet up but I be all the way over in California. Plus I have never been on a plane but why not take 10 hour flight for my 1st flight, go big or go home right? :rofl;
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Suggest we take a vote on her September 2013 or April 2014???
Which suits people best?
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Just putting this out there ...
I'm not one for meeting people due to being shy and just generally feeling like people are judging me for whatever reason. However, I've been thinking about this whole UK Meet idea and wondered how UKians would feel about the following proposal: Kidney Research UK do a seven or eight mile walk in London, usually on the second Sunday in July. I did it with Mumsy in 2010 and have been itching to do it again but for various reasons I haven't. Would anybody else be interested for next year? I know it's a long time in advance but I thought it might be cool-ish to meet each other and raise money for a charity which is close to our hearts kidneys at the same time. Anybody who didn't want to do the actual walk could cheer us on from the sidelines and afterwards we could go for a meal (or just have a picnic!). We'd also have the option of some people meeting on the Saturday evening if they wanted (and with enough notice we'd have no trouble finding somewhere cheap to stay.)
We could even advertise ihd.com on our t-shirts ...
Anyhoo, just an idea I've been mulling over on the bus to work for the last couple of mornings. We're an apathetic bunch at the best of times so I won't expect much response!! And obviously I reserve the right to back out in horror and scarediness at having to meet real people.
;D
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Just putting this out there ...
I'm not one for meeting people due to being shy and just generally feeling like people are judging me for whatever reason. However, I've been thinking about this whole UK Meet idea and wondered how UKians would feel about the following proposal: Kidney Research UK do a seven or eight mile walk in London, usually on the second Sunday in July. I did it with Mumsy in 2010 and have been itching to do it again but for various reasons I haven't. Would anybody else be interested for next year? I know it's a long time in advance but I thought it might be cool-ish to meet each other and raise money for a charity which is close to our hearts kidneys at the same time. Anybody who didn't want to do the actual walk could cheer us on from the sidelines and afterwards we could go for a meal (or just have a picnic!). We'd also have the option of some people meeting on the Saturday evening if they wanted (and with enough notice we'd have no trouble finding somewhere cheap to stay.)
We could even advertise ihd.com on our t-shirts ...
Anyhoo, just an idea I've been mulling over on the bus to work for the last couple of mornings. We're an apathetic bunch at the best of times so I won't expect much response!! And obviously I reserve the right to back out in horror and scarediness at having to meet real people.
;D
I like the idea but not sure I could walk 8 miles at the moment.
Gives me a target to aim for I guess but yesI like the idea a lot... :waving;
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I'm up 'North' from Southport, count me in,
:yahoo;
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Just putting this out there ...
I'm not one for meeting people due to being shy and just generally feeling like people are judging me for whatever reason. However, I've been thinking about this whole UK Meet idea and wondered how UKians would feel about the following proposal: Kidney Research UK do a seven or eight mile walk in London, usually on the second Sunday in July. I did it with Mumsy in 2010 and have been itching to do it again but for various reasons I haven't. Would anybody else be interested for next year? I know it's a long time in advance but I thought it might be cool-ish to meet each other and raise money for a charity which is close to our hearts kidneys at the same time. Anybody who didn't want to do the actual walk could cheer us on from the sidelines and afterwards we could go for a meal (or just have a picnic!). We'd also have the option of some people meeting on the Saturday evening if they wanted (and with enough notice we'd have no trouble finding somewhere cheap to stay.)
We could even advertise ihd.com on our t-shirts ...
Anyhoo, just an idea I've been mulling over on the bus to work for the last couple of mornings. We're an apathetic bunch at the best of times so I won't expect much response!! And obviously I reserve the right to back out in horror and scarediness at having to meet real people.
;D
I would be happy to do the walk, though I don't think I would raise much money, if any. Unless we do it as a team venture and ask for donations on IHD/FB/elsewhere? Most everyone I know is overwhelmed by the sheer number of fundraising events that they are invited to or asked to contribute to, so I'd hesitate to ask for more than a few quid. We should discuss further assuming there's enough interest.
I empathize with the social-phobia or anxiety or whatever it is, but I assume that if people are going to back out that they'll send a PM or something. I just don't want to get all the way to London to find that everyone else has bailed. I think an 8-mile walk would do me a world of good, and I could probably convince my family that it would have the same effect on them. :)
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Poppy i think that's a lovely idea! As long as its a walk not a run im in! xxxxx :cuddle;
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I would be happy to do the walk, though I don't think I would raise much money, if any. Unless we do it as a team venture and ask for donations on IHD/FB/elsewhere? Most everyone I know is overwhelmed by the sheer number of fundraising events that they are invited to or asked to contribute to, so I'd hesitate to ask for more than a few quid. We should discuss further assuming there's enough interest.
Oh, we could definitely do a group page for fundraising if we went ahead with it. That way you don't even have to ask for donations if you don't want to and nobody else would be any the wiser. It does get a little overwhelming with the amount of fundraising activities that go on these days. I work with someone who has two charities she will contribute to and if you're not raising money for them she just doesn't donate. I like her style, but I always feel (guilt-tripped into thinking) I have to donate to everything!
I empathize with the social-phobia or anxiety or whatever it is, but I assume that if people are going to back out that they'll send a PM or something. I just don't want to get all the way to London to find that everyone else has bailed. I think an 8-mile walk would do me a world of good, and I could probably convince my family that it would have the same effect on them. :)
Oh gosh, once I'd actually committed I wouldn't back out! I'm not that bad! :o :P
Poppy i think that's a lovely idea! As long as its a walk not a run im in! xxxxx :cuddle;
:2thumbsup;
I like the idea but not sure I could walk 8 miles at the moment.
Gives me a target to aim for I guess but yesI like the idea a lot... :waving;
Do you need a piggy-back?! You can wait at the finishing line with CAKE!!
;D
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@Poppy
If I am not able to walk that far by next year, perhaps someone could push me round in a wheelchair. :rofl; :rofl; :rofl;
Funnily enough, the year before last I did a cake stall for World Kidney Day at my sisters workplace and raised £50 with a mountain of fancy
cupcakes and traybakes!
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Poppy don't go all phobia on us!! I'm prepared to travel around the world to give you huggles... and they are YOUR trademark!! The least you could do is show up!!! :rofl; :rofl; :rofl; :rofl;
Yep, I studied at Cambridge (down with Oxford ;) ) in 1988. I'd love to go back... bring it on!
I also agree that London is VERY costly for hotels from many years of experiences - good and bad !!!
(but some notice would be good!!)
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Poppy don't go all phobia on us!! I'm prepared to travel around the world to give you huggles... and they are YOUR trademark!! The least you could do is show up!!! :rofl; :rofl; :rofl; :rofl;
Yep, I studied at Cambridge (down with Oxford ;) ) in 1988. I'd love to go back... bring it on!
I also agree that London is VERY costly for hotels from many years of experiences - good and bad !!!
(but some notice would be good!!)
I'd go anywhere to get *huggles* from you, Richard (within reason, of course).
;D
Which college did you study at? (Or are you an "I studiedin rather than at Cambridge"?! :P) Blokey's family has connections with Cambridge University (not in the academic sense though; they've been there purely to serve!)
Transport costs into London aren't too bad if you book your tickets in advance so there's always that option if people want to do the walk but don't want to stay in the capital.
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I attended Wolfson (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wolfson_College,_Cambridge)
When I say I studied there it is both true, and rubbish lol.
We did a 3 week course there as part of an end of high school trip my school put on and luckily my parents had the $$$$ to send me as part of a group of about 25 or so of us rowdy 17-18 year olds (yes, there are stories, and no not here :) ). Anyway we studied things like Superpowe relations (this was 1988 remember), International Politics, Economics and the like. You know.. go spend time being tutored by varios University Professors in an old English Mansion, complete with morning and afternoon tea, of course! This was in December holidays for the students and University (and yes, we all slept out for the night to attend the Carols @ Cambridge - bloody hell it was cold!) and stuff like that. Amazing experience.
The big let down was that - leaving the 30+ C Australian summer for a real English winter, and the hope of a White Christmas it was like the hottest day on record or something at 15C and all the poms were out in their singlets and shorts (ugh!! LOL) and we did not have our special White Christmas.. but spent much time in old English pubs, riding the streets of Cambridge on our bikes at 2am after pub closing(as you do !), trying to not fall in the river, and doing various journeys around the countryside - places like Ely, Bath and a few other places I forget now, but all very interesting.. plus time in London(of course) and Austria/Hungry...
so I can claim to have studied at Cambridge.. I even have the poxy college scarf and a tie somewhere..... lol
I remember the cool bookshops and little places in Camb... gorgeous town.
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Cambridge would be easiest to arrange accommodation and for eating out at reasonable cost. Transport easy as well.
We could have an IHD dinner (or lunch) at Bills then we could get Rich to take us punting!!!! :rofl; :rofl; :rofl;
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Me take you punting?! You have to watch your fluids.. and trust me with me at the helm (keel? whatever) you'd be in the drink for sure!! :p
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Would the last week of September in Cambridge be a good time/place?
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Good for me
Premier Inn near station has reasonable priced rooms.
Bus transport in and out of town easy to use.
Dinner at Bills? Punting with Richie?
Depends on numbers who want to stay over maybe able to get good deal at a boutique hotel
(Have various offers)
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Sorry folks.. would love to but it's too soon and since I have Vegas booked for a few weeks later, and another trip in November mostly planned I just can't fit the UK in.. but if you hold another one next year with more notice, like in April or Sep or whatever I will really make it a priority to organise to come.
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Sorry folks.. would love to but it's too soon and since I have Vegas booked for a few weeks later, and another trip in November mostly planned I just can't fit the UK in.. but if you hold another one next year with more notice, like in April or Sep or whatever I will really make it a priority to organise to come.
You trying to get out of the punting!!!! :rofl;
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So who is still up for a UK meet?
And what dates?
I am still thinking Cambridge better place than London to hold it.
(Much easier to drive to AND access public transport)
I am thinking we might have to delay this to next year perhaps April?
What are your thoughts peoples????
:waving; :waving; :waving;
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April sounds much better for me in terms of planning!
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Okay April next year sounds good in April. Lets. Pick a date? So Richard can book.
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Over a long weekend???
Two suggestions
either Friday 4th April - Monday 7th OR
Friday 25th April - Monday 28th
Let me know your preferences. :beer1;
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My vote is for the 25' April weekend, cos maybe nicer weather, and touristy things open.
Please let's do this, we can't just keep making vague plans
Love you all, Cas
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Well not that this is all about me in any way or shape or form (cuz it isn't!) but if it was up to me I would vote APril 25h. 25/4 here is ANZAC day and a public holiday though I obviously would be leaving before then being so far away but anyhoo....
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Okay dear people of IHD UK, and Richard, April 25' next year is TTL not a bank holiday here, so it might actually be poss to get down South as well.
I'm really looking forward to it, and really hope we will be a life, and well by then.
:yahoo;
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Just bumping this up to remind peeps that we ARE having
a get together in ENGLAND on April 25th/26th/27th in Cambridge UK
Make sure you pencil it in your diary!
Can't promise you brilliant weather but we will have some fun, a good meal or two, Cambridge is a wonderful city to amble around or shop,
and a good hotel to hang around in.
:beer1; :2thumbsup; :ukflag;
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tis definitely in my schedule to get over there for this!!!!
:)
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tis definitely in my schedule to get over there for this!!!!
:)
We have got to convince Poppy that she is brave enough to come to the organised dinner. I for one would love to meet her too, as i always enjoy reading her comments on here. :(
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We have got to convince Poppy that she is brave enough to come to the organised dinner. I for one would love to meet her too, as i always enjoy reading her comments on here. :(
Good luck with that, Sugar!
Besides, Cambridge is far too inconvenient for me. The bus journey would be a nightmare.
:P
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<giggles> We'll send Richard round to collect ya :2thumbsup;
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So I'm prepared to fly over 10,000 miles to get there and a little bus trip is an issue? :p
tsk tsk tsk
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Giggles :clap; and the food in Bills Restaurant is lovely...
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So I'm prepared to fly over 10,000 miles to get there and a little bus trip is an issue? :p
tsk tsk tsk
Oh, I'm sure I can think of a better excuse ... just give me time!
Bill's is lovely.
Cambridge is lovely, BUT ...
I see a bit of Cambridge every blasted day. There's too many bluddy cyclists and they think they own the roads AND the pavements. I swear, if one more cyclist rings their bell at me I will probably get myself arrested for aggressive behaviour. And the tourists? Don't get me started ... Grrr ...
Moan moan grumble moan.
;D
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yeah I know Camb is known as a cycling city (in April let me recount for you the story of a few too many at a pub/bar and riding "home" at 2am one cold winters eve.... ;) ) but I thought they were better than the selfish idiots we have here on their bikes that think (SOME, NOT ALL anyway) that common courtesy and the road rules apply to them.
Well Pops if you can't stand Camb, then what would YOU suggest? We want you (& Blokey) involved if possible!!! You don't want Sugar & I getting tipsy and making up stories do you?! :p
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yeah I know Camb is known as a cycling city (in April let me recount for you the story of a few too many at a pub/bar and riding "home" at 2am one cold winters eve.... ;) ) but I thought they were better than the selfish idiots we have here on their bikes that think (SOME, NOT ALL anyway) that common courtesy and the road rules apply to them.
Well Pops if you can't stand Camb, then what would YOU suggest? We want you (& Blokey) involved if possible!!! You don't want Sugar & I getting tipsy and making up stories do you?! :p
I think the cyclists here are getting worse; every day (nearly) there seems to be a 'grrr at motorists' article, which is balanced out by a 'grrr at cyclists' article the next day. They go through red lights, cycle really fast and close past pedestrians, and think they're more important than other road users. Not all, obviously. Some are ok. I'm quite biased though because I was knocked over by a cyclist riding on the pavement a few years ago. I was getting off the bus and then suddenly I was in front of the bus having been catapaulted into the air by an old granny cycling too fast (who must have seen that the bus was stopping, the doors were opening and someone was stepping off.) I rarely used to look left when alighting buses, but now do so as a matter of habit.
;D
Nah, I'm ok with Cambridge. I'll either have my weekly bus pass which gets me to work and back, or a Blokey to drive me. Nice and cheap!
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Oh Poppy dear, we must have a pint together and share war stories. If you saw my occasional rants on facebook you'd think we were soul mates (when it comes to cyclists anyway!! LOL). I agree with you. I will temper this though with the comment that things I see every day on busy streets here just blow my mind (and with my poor eyesight, the stuff *I* see is blantly bad.. all the stuff I miss I'm both glad for and shudder about!!).. I mean I see pedestrians walk whichever crazy way they like, across bike lanes, without looking or caring, or worse just standing in the middle of them (and I don't blame the cyclists for throwing a fit there), the cyclists then running red lights, forming mini peletons on roads and footpaths(sidewalks), and motorists being selfish too. It's almost always a small minority of any group that causes angst like this and gives everyone a bad name.
For myself, even more so with my eyesight, I try to be super considerate and aware of what is going on around me (some don't) but even then I will be walking on the footpath some place and some smartass will zip past me so close the hairs on the back on my neck blow up when there's a whole etre or two they could take up, it's almost a game with some I reckon, how close can you come (without ringing a bell or any other indication from behind you are there, mind you) to someone walking without taking them out. Yeah good one, until I decide to step to one side to avoid a puddle or something and WHAM and I fear for the day I too get knocked and hurt myself, and maybe my kidney.....
so yeah... soulies....
but I digress.
We will avoid all that and have a nice time. Please we want you there... and I want to rant with you now!! :)
:grouphug; :yahoo;
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Well, I suppose I can manage a fairly smallish number of miles (but shan't say how many because the Delectable Dr. Neph, Phwoar! might read this board and work out who I am) if you're coming all the way over from Australia ...
;D
For myself, even more so with my eyesight, I try to be super considerate and aware of what is going on around me (some don't) but even then I will be walking on the footpath some place and some smartass will zip past me so close the hairs on the back on my neck blow up when there's a whole etre or two they could take up, it's almost a game with some I reckon, how close can you come (without ringing a bell or any other indication from behind you are there, mind you) to someone walking without taking them out. Yeah good one, until I decide to step to one side to avoid a puddle or something and WHAM
Ha ha, I never thought that it might be a game to them. I think you're probably right ... I always walk to the edge of this pedestrian-cycle track (which is wider than a bus) near work (because I'm being nice and giving them plenty of room) and we still might practically touch hands as they whizz by from behind, or even from in front. Um, hello! I am here! Or when three of them are cycling together and I have to stop and stand in the 'gutter'. Sheesh! If I'm on the pavement and I know it's NOT a cycle pavement so they shouldn't be on it, I sometimes stand in the middle and refuse to move sideways when they're blasting away with their bells. But only when I know I'm in the right. And especially when there's a cycle lane next to the pavement ... wtf?! Yes, it has happened.
As you can see I do feel strongly about this ... *grin* ... and I do notice your Fb updates about cyclists!
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RIGHT Folks ... we need to collect up definites for the UK Get together 2014 so I can do some organising. :ukflag;
So who is coming along for our get together the weekend of 25th, 26th,27th of April to Cambridge, UK ???
I need names and numbers, plus an indication of those that want hotel accommodation (I am planning to stay over 25th and 26th in hotel) and who wants to
join in the activities planned on a daily basis. At the moment hoping to include lunch or dinner at Bills, an afternoons guided punt and if anyone is interested a trip to The
National Stud at Newmarket to see the mum's and babies (possibly Frankel's offspring!!!!) We could do some informal get togethers / shopping or tour of Cambridge colleges
as wished. Nothing is compulsory!!!
But I do need names (indication of plus one's etc) and which bits you want to be included in. Anyone needs help to arrange dialysis? (Addenbrookes Hospital usually has a few spaces)
Either post your answers on here or pm me.
Here's hoping to see some of you :bandance; :bandance; :bandance;
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Anyone needs help to arrange dialysis? (Addenbrookes Hospital usually has a few spaces)
There doesn't appear to be a *laughing till my head falls off* emoticon ...
I don't need dialysis. Or a hotel. I know where Bill resides. I haven't spoken to Blokey yet. I can basically wait and see what the itninery is and then sort myself out from there.
;D
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Anyone needs help to arrange dialysis? (Addenbrookes Hospital usually has a few spaces)
There doesn't appear to be a *laughing till my head falls off* emoticon ...
I don't need dialysis. Or a hotel. I know where Bill resides. I haven't spoken to Blokey yet. I can basically wait and see what the itninery is and then sort myself out from there.
;D
How about an informal talk by the delectable transplant doctor we both know??!!! ;D
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I would love to attend but cannot confirm anything until I see how this meningitis plays out.
I do need to ask a delicate question, please be honest. Would it be OK to bring my kids? The dates coincide with their Easter break and we rarely get time to do anything together beyond collapsing in front of the telly. The boys wouldn't have to come along to everything as Gwyn is more than willing to take them and go do something off by themselves. They don't swear but you don't need to really watch your language around them, either. Trust me, they've heard it.
I was one of the least child-friendly people you could have met before I had Aidan, so if the answer is 'please don't' I completely understand. :beer1;
Gwyn and I have never been to Cambridge, together or separately. It's an ideal location choice for us. :)
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How about an informal talk by the delectable transplant doctor we both know??!!! ;D
Ooooh ... *swoons* ...
Would it be OK to bring my kids? The dates coincide with their Easter break and we rarely get time to do anything together beyond collapsing in front of the telly.
The more the merrier I would have thought! Your Easter break is late?! (In our neck of the woods we finish on the 4th and go back on the 22nd.)
;D
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OK hubby would like to come, and stay one night as he's working Fr, Sat, Sun but must be able to have at least 1 day.
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Looking good. :clap;
I am sure we can accommodate your boys cariad and the programme will be very flexible so they can join in (or go off) as they please.
There's a fair amount to do and see in Cambridge.
Fingers crossed re the meningitis ... sending you good vibes. :cuddle;
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OMG OMG OMG OMG !!
you want to take this stud to Newmarket?!!!! :rofl; :rofl; :rofl; :rofl; :rofl; :rofl; :rofl; :rofl;
hell YEAH!!
I better get looking into flights!
And Camb colleges sure.. was there in 1988 (Wolfson alum of sorts - I have a tie hehe) so would bring back lots of memories for me...
bring it!
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Hotels in central Cambridge are pricey. Here's a few suggestions:
University Arms Hotel (very central) is good but £140 a night. (includes breakfast) but very little onsite parking that you have to pay for.
Holiday Inn Express (about 2 miles out) good facilities inc rooms that sleep up to 4, bar and restaurant, free parking and an ice machine!!!! about £80-90 a night (includes free breakfast)
Travelodge Newmarket Road Cambs, or Central Camb travelodge (about 1m from city centre and fairly close to station) basic accomodation, expensive parking, but £54 a night. (breakfast not included)
I will probably plump for The Holiday Inn Express, because of parking.And good get together facilities, leather sofas, bar etc.
Cambridge does have a really good bus system and lots of taxis.
Just a guide for the minute (Can't really enquire about discounts til I know definite numbers and what people want) :beer1;
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And...
For anyone who wants to do a full tour of the Cambridge Colleges (rather than just wander around and looking at them) there is an official tour at about 11am (lasting 2 hours) @£17.50 every day. :welcomesign;
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University Arms Hotel (very central) is good but £140 a night. (includes breakfast) but very little onsite parking that you have to pay for.
I thought that burnt down last year!
There's a Travelodge and a Premier Travel Inn which are on the Guided Busway (the longest in the world, don't you know) and so very easy for getting in and out of Cambridge on the bus. They have the added bonus of being right next to the A14 - and not far from the Holiday Inn - if you have a car and want to drive elsewhere. And you can get a weekly ticket which is brilliant value for money if you're going to use a bus a lot whilst here. St. Ives is a nice little town to visit, if you're inclined, and you can get to that on the Guided Busway (the longest in the world, don't you know) ... really, you have to at least go on the Guided Busway (the longest in the world, don't you know) at least once. It's terribly exciting.
;D
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University Arms Hotel (very central) is good but £140 a night. (includes breakfast) but very little onsite parking that you have to pay for.
I thought that burnt down last year!
There's a Travelodge and a Premier Travel Inn which are on the Guided Busway (the longest in the world, don't you know) and so very easy for getting in and out of Cambridge on the bus. They have the added bonus of being right next to the A14 - and not far from the Holiday Inn - if you have a car and want to drive elsewhere. And you can get a weekly ticket which is brilliant value for money if you're going to use a bus a lot whilst here. St. Ives is a nice little town to visit, if you're inclined, and you can get to that on the Guided Busway (the longest in the world, don't you know) ... really, you have to at least go on the Guided Busway (the longest in the world, don't you know) at least once. It's terribly exciting.
;D
I think they must have repaired it because they are offering rooms???
I have never been on the guided busway, where does it finish?(in Cambridge?)
And most maps inc google don't show the route!
I am not that fond of Travelodges (some of them are very tired) but Premier Inn's are usually ok.
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I have never been on the guided busway, where does it finish?(in Cambridge?)
Officially it goes from Huntingdon to Trumpington Park & Ride (dependent on whether you get Route A or Route B (or C or D!) but the actual Guided Busway (the offroad bit) goes from St Ives to the Science Park and then from the railway station to Addenbrooke's. If you have an appointment at Addenbrooke's it's very convenient to park at Trumpington and use it. It has leather seats ... very swish (but if you're wearing the wrong sort of clothing it makes it a bit slippy-slidey.)
And I know what you mean about Travelodge. We always pick the Travel Inn ... we did most of our courting courtesy of the Travel Inn; I think we managed to visit most of them in the Eastern region!
;D
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I have never been on the guided busway, where does it finish?(in Cambridge?)
Officially it goes from Huntingdon to Trumpington Park & Ride (dependent on whether you get Route A or Route B (or C or D!) but the actual Guided Busway (the offroad bit) goes from St Ives to the Science Park and then from the railway station to Addenbrooke's. If you have an appointment at Addenbrooke's it's very convenient to park at Trumpington and use it. It has leather seats ... very swish (but if you're wearing the wrong sort of clothing it makes it a bit slippy-slidey.)
And I know what you mean about Travelodge. We always pick the Travel Inn ... we did most of our courting courtesy of the Travel Inn; I think we managed to visit most of them in the Eastern region!
;D
I am a bit of a hotel snob and tend to pick places like The Rutland Arms at Newmarket or The Hilton Hotels and probably pay through the nose!!! I am addicted to room service, bathroom robes and breakfast in bed!!! Living beyond my means for a day or two 8)
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I am a bit of a hotel snob and tend to pick places like The Rutland Arms at Newmarket or The Hilton Hotels and probably pay through the nose!!! I am addicted to room service, bathroom robes and breakfast in bed!!! Living beyond my means for a day or two 8)
Ha ha, these days (as a married couple with no real reason to use cheap hotels) we tend to go for The Marriott (using Tesco Clubcard Tokens). We're on our way to having visited most of those in England too!
;D
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Umm so just what *IS* a guided busway (the longest in the world, I know! I know! :) ) ? is this like a dedicated bus lane operation thing or something? but I digress...
re hotels.. not a fan of travellodge either - a little too cheap and basic for me. I am happy with a holiday inn express - clean rooms (usually) and the continental breakfasts are usually good for a cuppa and a danish or something but a clean room/bathroom at a decent price works.
Sure I've stayed at the Hiltons (the Paddington Hilton is horribly expensive, but also very nice :) ) - the Hilton at Thiefrow T4 which was OK but could have gone for less cost., but very convenient location for early flights.. but I digress.
For special occasions, and with the right company I do enjoy the room service thing, though tbh as a tx patient I do think re how hot some food would be by the time it arrives. but that's because I'm a worrier lol
but for the camb thing, I'm totally cool with the HI or whatever. My biggest concerns are really clean comfy room and eae of transport options or at least inexpensive. Other than that, I'm easy :) (but all the girls know that anyway :p )
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Well, look at you all, world travelers!
We are probably going to go self-catering. I can manage the Premier Inn or similar if it's only for a night, but as the kids get older, four of us in a room just doesn't work for long. With our own kitchen we save a fortune in restaurant costs and any extra price for accommodation evens out. Or if it doesn't, it's still worth it to be more comfortable.
This will probably mean staying outside Cambridge (15-20 mins), but we will have a car, and we are lucky to get fuel costs paid by Gwyn's employer.
So anyhow, please don't factor us into which hotel you pick if you want to all try to stay in the same place. Hopefully we can exchange mobile numbers and keep in touch that way.
:beer1;
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That works for me. :2thumbsup;
I reckon the Holiday Inn express Rich is the best deal ... buffet breakfast inc hot stuff (insert giggle!!!) and good hanging about lounge with sofas and bar.
Transport shouldn't be too much of a problem with a small group.I have a blue badge so we can park nearly anywhere and the buses in Camb are great.
I will let Poppy explain the guided busway to you (its a bit like a tram) :2thumbsup;
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I get points n stuff to stay at HI so that works for me too, but I am not wedded to that.
Main thing for me is that we can all get together and enjoy a good time!!!! That's what is important n'est pas?
ah guided busway like a tram so is this like the busses that connect to power via a pole? They have similar in Seattle I know.. so they can't go too far from the electric line lol.
Anyway this all sounds great!! Now, I just need to find me an airfare that works. Though I had one, but it turns out it wasn't exactly what I wanted so I still look.
I am so set to come over there though!!! I'll buy transplantees n folks a pint!!! :)
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btw is this the HI Express you mean?
15-17 Coldhams Business Park Norman Way Cambridge, CB1 3LH England
http://www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/hotels/gb/en/cambridge/cbgcc/hoteldetail
- it's only 2 miles from the train station :)
cuz there's a regular HI there as well:
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Yep that's the right one Rich.
Be a good place to hang out in the lobby/bar area
Mine's a quarter of a pint please!!!!! :rofl;
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Ah, I thought you meant this one, Sugar ...
http://www.ihg.com/holidayinn/hotels/gb/en/cambridge/cbgim/hoteldetail
... because it's just minutes walk from the Guided Busway (the longest in the world, don't you know.)
ah guided busway like a tram so is this like the busses that connect to power via a pole? They have similar in Seattle I know.. so they can't go too far from the electric line lol.
Um, no.
It's a guideway-on-concrete-kerb method. It's designed to go on the roads too and just has something attached to its underside for the guided bit. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cambridgeshire_Guided_Busway
;D
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We'll end up having to go on the damm thing with the IHD's just to see what it really is like!
I thought it was driverless :rofl;
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We'll end up having to go on the damm thing with the IHD's just to see what it really is like!
I thought it was driverless :rofl;
Before or after Newmarket?! :D
sounds like an awesome activity. Pints (or quarter!) all round first though !!!
:rofl; :rofl; :rofl; :rofl; :rofl; :rofl;
I'm really excited to get there now... I've been investigating airfares and have a few options. I wonder what Doha is like that time of year for a stopover. :D
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Doha??? It will be hot at least before you hit bracing England!!!
SO stud, colleges, guided busway ride and DON't forget the punting (Found a company that provides a guided punt!!!!)
Dinner at Bills and some good gossip time over your pints!!!!
Sounds good to me. :waving;
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Are we getting the punt from Magdalene College? There's some lovely independent shops down there. And a cake shop!
Really, scrap the Guided Busway excursion. It's not fun and you'll need quite a few alcoholic beverages inside you before it IS fun. Unless you want to tootle on down to St Ives, which is quaint and has a big statue of Cromwell.
I have never been on the sightseeing bus. Can we go on the sightseeing bus?! PLEASE?!
;D
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But but but the guided busway is the biggest in the world don't I know?!!! :D
I noted some of that hotel packages included a pass for a punt or something which I thought was hilarious. :
Sure, the punt, the tourist bus.. pints in between (very renal friendly... LOL well for those that CAN/SHOULD indulge anyway...) it all sounds like great fun
and fun to play thr tourist in your own back yard.. you can hide behind me cuz I've got the funny accent and I live kinda near where they film Neighbours (barf!) so that's enough to get anyone out of trouble. In other cases one of you ladies can assist, I'm sure .... (*hide*)
as for Doha, just one of the airfare options I saw that could work for me was on Qatar. I'd not stop there ugh. Had a mate who was working there but he left last year so.... just a transit :)
Anyway we'll see.
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I'll find out about the sightseeing bus!!! Have to sit upstairs though so I might need a hand or two to get up and down :rofl;
Now I just need to order some nice spring weather for us .... 8)
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Just tell 'em Mitchell Johnson is coming over and the weather gods of England will be scared into submission!! :rofl; :rofl; :rofl; :rofl; :rofl; :rofl;
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Well boys and girls I am ready to book some flights, including a hopefully very nice and comfy way to get home.
So where are we at with this? Still stuck on the guided busway (it's the biggest in the world - I know!) :)
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Its a goer!
I have booked Friday 25th and Saturday 26th nights at The Holiday Inn Express at Cambridge, booked a table at Bills for Saturday night at 7.30pm
I need to know numbers for the National Stud Tour at Newmarket (planned for Saturday morning) as have to book in advance.
Seeing when we can fit bus sightseeing tour in (punting planned for Sunday morning) so don't forget to bring your punting clothes (Panama hat? Or a wetsuit!!!!)
Looking forward to it :waving;
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Count me in for all. I'm booking flights to get into the UK on 24th and leave on the 28th, so will train up to Cambridge on fri 25th woohooo!
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:P
Count me in for all. I'm booking flights to get into the UK on 24th and leave on the 28th, so will train up to Cambridge on fri 25th woohooo!
Whoop!
Sugar, I won't join you for the National Stud Tour, but will definitely pop into Cambridge on the Friday afternoon/evening to meet you, and Blokey has agreed to come to Bill's on the Saturday night! Yay! He's not up for punting, but has said he'll make sure to drop me off so I can get tinto Cambridge via the Guided Busway ... the longest in the world! Ha ha ... on the Sunday.
;D
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I reckon on Sunday morning we could combine the open topped bus tour of Cambridge with the punting.
As it stops at all the right places! (£14 a head for the on off bus and goes every 20 minutes)
i am actually getting quite excited!!! :ukflag;
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I'm booked :)
I fly into Thiefrow Thursday morning 24th April (flying from Melbourne via Hong Kong and Helsinki - I scratched Doha lol) and I'm flying out Monday evening 28th April back home via Dubai.
I'm planning the Thursday night in London to get some London time in, and have a proper sleep (Finnair is not known for their comfort, even in Business Class :( ) and then intend to catch the train up from Liverpool Street on the Friday probably early afternoon (there seem to be trains at very regular intervals), but not too late to hit a peak. Prob around 1pm.
Then make my way to the hotel (unless some kind sugaery type person wants to pick me up :) ) and stay there Fri/Sat/Sun nights - head back to London/Heathrow on the Monday.
One way or another, I'm coming to the UK - woot! :)
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That "sugary" person only gets off dialysis about 12.30pm so we are more likely to appear about 3pm ish.... in time to miss the rush hour traffic, check into hotel and enjoy a drink in the bar.... (a small one) :P
:bandance; :bandance; :bandance;
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Count one first-time-traveling-abroad-American to this group! I just booked my trip!!! :yahoo; I'll be traveling with the crazy Aussie, so if anyone picks him up, you have to pick me up too..... :waving;
KarenInWA
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Er well I was looking at a train arriving between 2 and 3 at Cambridge Railway Station - still 6 quid (or 12 in "First Class" lol) advance purchase from Liverpool St :)
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Er well I was looking at a train arriving between 2 and 3 at Cambridge Railway Station - still 6 quid (or 12 in "First Class" lol) advance purchase from Liverpool St :)
errr first class doesn't mean a lot on our trains!!!! :rofl;
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Count one first-time-traveling-abroad-American to this group! I just booked my trip!!! :yahoo; I'll be traveling with the crazy Aussie, so if anyone picks him up, you have to pick me up too..... :waving;
KarenInWA
:welcomesign;
Welcome to the party Karen :ukflag; great to have another international member joining us.
Hope you are ready for England's quaintness and having traveled to the US myself, how small everything is in comparison!!!
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Er well I was looking at a train arriving between 2 and 3 at Cambridge Railway Station - still 6 quid (or 12 in "First Class" lol) advance purchase from Liverpool St :)
errr first class doesn't mean a lot on our trains!!!! :rofl;
I know lol. more hoping for easier storage for suitcase hahahaa. and a slightly comfier seat.
besides everyone knows I go First :p (kidding)
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So all you UK folks who have expressed interest please show up or there might be more internationals than locals!!!! :rofl; :rofl;
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Count one first-time-traveling-abroad-American to this group! I just booked my trip!!! :yahoo; I'll be traveling with the crazy Aussie, so if anyone picks him up, you have to pick me up too..... :waving;
KarenInWA
Okay, now I'm scared ...
:P
So, at the weekend we were trying to think of dates to take my MiL out and we settled on the 25th. Blokey said that the date seemed familiar, did we already have something on? I checked my diary. Nope, we're good to go, I said. Today we received an email from my BiL to say he'd booked the place we're going to. I thought nothing of it. I've just turned to him and told him why the date seemed familiar.
Why do I have a diary if I don't put things in it?!
It means I can't meet up with you on the Friday. I'm (we're) still up for the Saturday and I'm definitely coming on the Sunday. I am starting to get nervous because of my fear of social situations. Sugar, I may have to insist you meet me at some point beforehand, and I'm trying to think if I'll be down your way and may be just before Easter. We should synchronise our diaries!
;D
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Poppy *huggles* it's OK. we're harmless. Well I am... I think Sugar can get a bit feisty haha
the best thing about IHD meets I have been to (gee, 3 now plus a mini one in Sydney years back) is that everyone is so friendly and relaxed.
:)
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Count one first-time-traveling-abroad-American to this group! I just booked my trip!!! :yahoo; I'll be traveling with the crazy Aussie, so if anyone picks him up, you have to pick me up too..... :waving;
KarenInWA
Okay, now I'm scared ...
:P
So, at the weekend we were trying to think of dates to take my MiL out and we settled on the 25th. Blokey said that the date seemed familiar, did we already have something on? I checked my diary. Nope, we're good to go, I said. Today we received an email from my BiL to say he'd booked the place we're going to. I thought nothing of it. I've just turned to him and told him why the date seemed familiar.
Why do I have a diary if I don't put things in it?!
It means I can't meet up with you on the Friday. I'm (we're) still up for the Saturday and I'm definitely coming on the Sunday. I am starting to get nervous because of my fear of social situations. Sugar, I may have to insist you meet me at some point beforehand, and I'm trying to think if I'll be down your way and may be just before Easter. We should synchronise our diaries!
;D
Don't be nervous Poppy
I am kinda normal, friendly chatty (feisty indeed!!!!)
More than happy to meet up for a coffee beforehand so you know someone if it helps :beer1;
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OK so I have booked at that HI Express for Apr 25-28
can't wait to get over there :)
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:Kit n Stik; Woah!
You're all coming to Cambridge? :welcomesign;
(I'd invite you all round for tea but we live in a wee Georgian house and you'd get up, close and personal very quickly!)
Cariad pointed me in this direction and I cannae believe you are coming all the way over here - you are an amazing support group! And Sugarlump - you're a near local.
I would love to meet you all...perhaps I can be useful to Sugarlump in some way as I live in the city centre. I might be able to organise cheaper punts for you as I have a kind friend who helps run the punts (not scudamore's but they still give you cushions! BUT you'd need several willing volunteers to punt?
If at all possible I would like to meet you - even for just one of your events.
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Hi Iona You are more than welcome to join in with our event...the more the merrier!!! :waving;
Bills Restaurant on Saturday night at 7.30pm?
I'll let you know about the punting as i think we'd need a large guided punt and the hotel offers a discount with Scudamores. or a combo ticket with the hop on/hop off bus.. but keep me posted.
All Cambridge info gratefully received.
Friday late afternoon/evening we will be found in the bar of The Holiday Inn Express deciding where to eat probably!!!
I am indeed local-ish to you an hour to the south-east (just before you hit the sea!!!)
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Iona, please do come meet us! I've been to the annual meet in Vegas once and it's quite amazing how quickly everyone feels like old friends. And you cannot have too many of those! Most of us have never met before, either, so it will be an adventure.
I finally contacted a cottage owner in Cambridgeshire, just waiting on a reply. If that isn't available then I think we'll stay at the hotel with everyone else. Rest of the self-catering places are either too expensive or require minimum stays that are too long for us. Did I read there are two Holiday Inn Express in Cambridge?
Punting, is that different to crew? The four of us would be in for that, the boys would be happy to row (or whatever you call it in that sport, 'to punt' I should think) but no promises that we'd go forward or even stay afloat. ;D Crew always woke up too early for me at prep school so I never joined, please tell me that punting for tourists occurs during reasonable hours.
We will also be at Bills. Everything else I'll have to see how we go. I have promised to buy Dyl a pair of proper inline skates (he's using my 100-year-old ones at the moment) and there appears to be a friendly, well-stocked skate shop in town centre, so I've promised him a trip there, probably Saturday. Forget what it's called.... Iona? Any idea what I'm talking about?
Very exciting indeed, and cannot believe Karen's joining us! The Americans may outnumber the English!
THERE IS NO ESCAPING US!!! BWAH-HAHAHAHAHA! :usaflag;
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The Holiday Inn Express, Normans Way, Camb about 2m east of station is the one we're booked into.
They have free parking there.
As for the punting, since Richard declined to punt us around I had looked into a guided punt (they seat up to 12 people and have cushions and umbrellas.
Good way to see the backs of the colleges from the river. A very english thing to do!!!! Hats optional :rofl; but the boys could probably have a separate rowing boat or punt if they wanted.
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Iona!! Yes please come!!! It will be great to have more people there - the more friends to meet and hear all about!!!!
Hey, I never said I wouldn't go punting... you just wouldn't want me standing on the back tying to steer the thing. Wait is that punting or doing the gondola thing?! Either way I'd be useless!!! :)
Apart from meeting everyone and enjoying Bills, the punt etc, I'm so excited to return to a city I did spend some weeks in just over 25 years ago as a "student" - I adore Cambridge (Go the Blues!) and it will be lovely to come back. We slept out all night by Kings' for the carols, and cycled the streets at 2am after being kicked out the pub... such memories!!!
And *so* England. I love it.
I can't wait to see Cariad and Glyn too of the most loveliest people I know, and meet sugar FINALLY after so many years, and everyone else.
yay!!
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I decided it would be safer to have someone who knew what they are doing on a punt!!! :clap;
It will amazing to finally meet people I have known for years, particularly Rich (all the way from Australia)
and Poppy (a near neighbour yet we've never met!!! and to put faces to names of Cariad, Karen and co...
I am sure i have missed someone off this list ... Anyone else who wants to come please shout now and
Iona please come along too.
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Cassandra!!!! I hadn't forgotten you! ::)
Are you still coming?
Which activities would you like to join in with?
We have (loosely arranged)
Meet and greet Friday 25th 4-6pm in The Holiday Inn Express Bar ( and eat somewhere afters if hungry!!!)
Sat am Tour of National Stud (Newmarket) evening: Bills Restaurant for dinner 7.30pm
Sun am Hop on hop off sightseeing tour/Punting along The Backs
And plenty of time for wandering around town or shopping :2thumbsup;
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8) yeah still coming :yahoo;
We booked the Saturday night in HI, so in time for Bill's, and the sightseeing bus, and the times in between.
Can't wait to meet you all. :cuddle;
:cheer: :cheer:
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Wonderful!!! That makes 12 for Bills.
If I have missed you off my list, please shout loudly!
Sugar and Drew
Rich
Cariad, Hubby and her 2 boys
Poppy and Blokey
Cassandra and hubby
Karen
Apologies for not knowing hubbys names!!!You'll have to fill me in...
And 12 for punting? (on/off sightseeing bus optional) (Sunday morning)
I have just Rich (as well as me and Drew) currently for National Stud tour. (Saturday morning)
And Friday night meet and greet at the HI will be informal...all welcome. 8)
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Thank you for the warm encouragement! I've put the weekend in my diary..I have to meet this amazing bunch of characters and kind advisors!
I would love to come to Bill's, and if possible, with my husband, Sugarlump, is that OK? We won't come to Newmarket or punt with you but we'll run alongside the punt and throw ice lollies, etc at you! (We've heard the tour a million times - I've even given it before to visiting American students I looked after so Cariad I'm not scared of your sort not one little bit ;) ).
I thought I'd add some suggestions for those with any time on their hands after all the wonderful events already planned... :waving;
Anyone who would like a nice cup of tea I do advise a trip to The Orchard in Grantchester...a mile from Cambridge and well worth a visit..you can walk to Grantchester from our house along the river. We could act as guides if you like? My husband could lead the way and I could drive anyone who cannot walk a mile (If you've got the time...)
It's beautiful. Two quaint old pubs (one very family friendly), a beautiful church (I was married there!) and The Orchard is my go to place for experiencing pure joy WHEN THE SUN'S OUT. You can recline in deck chairs whilst children scrumpy, or rather, catch blossom from the apple and pear trees! A little path takes you back to the river and a field where you can play football or cricket etc and climb trees all the way back to Cam! We are also around the corner of The Fitzwilliam Museum (free) Renoir/ Stanley Spencer/ Egyptian Mummies/ armoury. It's a very short walk from town centre and you MUST walk past King's College and into the market square. Some lovely shops. Today I saw and heard a familiar sight of a busker who sits in an enclosed bin whilst playing the guitar- which sticks out at the side- and sings (Matchstick Cats and Dogs mostly). There is music everywhere. The Botanical Gardens (we have two membership cards) is worth a visit also, espec if you can't make it to Grantchester, it's beautiful - bring a picnic...children can run around, chase ducks, climb amongst rockeries, hide from parents, etc. You can get the most sublime sausage roll there and cup of coffee. Everywhere is close really.
I enjoy the walk to Grantchester and I'm on haemo. You can sit on the grass on the way and enjoy watching the punters punt! (Did I just answer a question there?!)
Cariad, you are right, I drove past another Holiday Inn today. It is in Histon, 5 mins from the centre of Cam. It looked nice from the outside. If you are driving you may wish to, perhaps 2 cars might wish to, park outside our house in the centre of town? Space is very limited here but we have permits to lend out..could do the same for any day/ evening. I can also advise on quiet roads near the centre if you are happy to walk through a beautiful park to get into the centre of town? If people want a couple of drinks I'll be happy to taxi those in need too. You are making such huge efforts to get here and it is no bother for me. Please google these places - they are where I take my visitors from overseas and they are never disappointed..unless it POURS down!
There are 3 Travel Lodges in Cambridge. One, Travel Lodge Central, a longish walk/ 5 min drive/taxi (think £7) into town but it might be quite noisy. Some friends stayed there and found it only OK and stayed on more than one occasion...BUT they have spring offers on at the mo, some £25 rooms. (Mind you there is a £12 charge for parking I think). There is a much newer one on the Newmarket road in Cambridge, near the Grafton Shopping Centre (incidentally where you can buy roller skates Cariad - on Burleigh St. Is it called Billy's? Another called Beavers but not sure where). Again a longish walk or short taxi/ drive into town from Newmarket road. Travel Lodges differ everywhere..some people say go elsewhere for breakfast! I stayed in one once and thought it did the job just fine. We had breakfast elsewhere!
Last thing -if anybody wants to dialyse on Friday morning (8am) at Addenbrooke's you are welcome to have my slot..I'm sure I could make the afternoon one, or evening maybe? The unit is friendly, nurses lovely, tea and lime juice(mmm), ice-cubes, biscuits, rolls and sarnies provided.
Oh and Richard we DO punt from the back of the punt! We will give lessons to anyone who wishes to try it for themselves. You could do the tour with the group AND have an hour of play on your own! (I could run alongside you on the backs and tow you?! Towels will be in easy reach!)
I hope you all have a wonderful time here. Any other questions, feel free to ask! Well done to Sugarlump for organising this event. See you in April.... :waving;
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Hmm, writing this at silly o'clock and on reading back it looks as though my husband is indeed Sugarlump..a couple of sneaky wavers too....zzzzzzzzzzzz
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Hi all,
I am still going on this trip, but I will not be traveling with Richard like I had thought. Since this will be my first time going anywhere over seas, I will need any and all help/guidance you can share!
I will also be spending the night in London on the 24th, arriving at Cambridge on the 25th, and will stay until the 27th or 28th. Then, back to London, and I will fly out on the 29th.
I am thinking maybe I should go back to London on the 27th so I can enjoy a whole day there? Thoughts? I also have never traveled alone before, so this too will be a first.
Thank you,
KarenInWA
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@Iona I am just going to check with Bills they can manage our increased party and will confirm back. Hopefully it will be okay. Will be great to meet you.
I have spent many a week at Addenbrookes and dialysed there too. It's a good unit ;D
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Bill's can manage our party of 14 :
Sugarlump and Drew
Rich
Karen
Cariad, hubby and 2 boys
Poppy and Blokey
Cassandra and hubby
Iona and hubby
The slight downside is they want us to pre-order because of the size of the party! I promise you the restaurant is worth it, in both food and atmosphere!
So here is a link to the menu:
http://bills-website.co.uk/menu/
There's no hurry for the orders but if you could choose starters/mains and let me know so I can collate them. I personally never know if I will want a desert til I've eaten!!!!
Oh and Karen do you want to go on The National Stud tour Saturday morning? And punting Sunday? Cheers!
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I love the idea of the walk up the river to Grantchester - maybe for Saturday lunchtime after the studs have done their thing? I'm dying to return to a traditional English pub and perhaps a gentle wander/relax finished off with afternoon tea sounds lovely to me - specially if the weather co-operates! I would definitely be up for that myself.
And speaking of pubs, and the meet @ the HI on the Friday, I happen to know a certain person just won big courtesy of a 33/1 long shot so she will be shouting drinks - right? :rofl; :yahoo; :2thumbsup; :rofl; :yahoo;
I will be staying till the 28th myself. I know everyone else will have departed, but I'll be thinking to walk around and get some exercise before an afternoon return to London and an evening departure south (possibly stopping at Oxford Circus, Earl's Court, Ealing and the Champagne Bar at the BA Galleries Lounge at LHR :) )
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Still have not booked a place to stay - waiting on a reply from our second choice of self-catering.
What time is the Newmarket tour, and how long? I'm sure my kids would be interested, just not sure they could handle anything too in-depth (or early!) I don't suppose there's any opportunity to ride a horse there? My younger boy is so animal-obsessed, not sure he could stand to be in the company of horses without jumping on. I'll discuss with Gwyn. Seems silly to go all the way to the area without seeing the famous sites.
I love Iona's suggestions for walks, so we will most likely make time for a trek. We also adore botanical gardens, so if the weather is amenable, we'll try to squeeze a visit there in. May have to try for Friday afternoon before the meet-up officially starts. If we're organized (ha!) we could probably be in Cambridge by 2PM. Oh, and yes, Iona, the skate shop was called Billy's, thanks for the info. We'll definitely check their hours and visit at some point.
You can sit on the grass on the way and enjoy watching the punters punt! (Did I just answer a question there?!)
Indeed. So punters punt in their punts. Well, now I know!
Oh and Richard we DO punt from the back of the punt! We will give lessons to anyone who wishes to try it for themselves. You could do the tour with the group AND have an hour of play on your own! (I could run alongside you on the backs and tow you?! Towels will be in easy reach!)
My kids will take you up on that offer if given half a chance. Watch out for the little guy, he's a bit too smart for his own good.... :-\
(We've heard the tour a million times - I've even given it before to visiting American students I looked after so Cariad I'm not scared of your sort not one little bit ;) ).
Sounds like a challenge to me! >:D :laugh:
So looking forward to this!
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Hi all,
I am still going on this trip, but I will not be traveling with Richard like I had thought. Since this will be my first time going anywhere over seas, I will need any and all help/guidance you can share!
I will also be spending the night in London on the 24th, arriving at Cambridge on the 25th, and will stay until the 27th or 28th. Then, back to London, and I will fly out on the 29th.
I am thinking maybe I should go back to London on the 27th so I can enjoy a whole day there? Thoughts? I also have never traveled alone before, so this too will be a first.
Thank you,
KarenInWA
Wow, this is your very first time traveling alone? You're diving straight into the deep end, aren't you!
I wish I could think of ways to make the flight easier, but there really aren't any that I've discovered. What time does your flight arrive? Ideally, you'd have a late afternoon arrival so you can get to your hotel and get to sleep at around your usual time. The flight from the west coast to London is BRUTAL, and unfortunately you won't have much time to acclimate. Unless you're really good at sleeping on planes, I would say expect to be sleepy by mid-afternoon here, and waking up in the middle of the night. It's a doddle the other direction, though. (Gwyn and I once both awoke at about 3AM after a flight here, and both of us were starving. Britain has far less of the Open-24-Hours-A-Day culture, so we jumped in the car and drove 15 minutes to the nearest motorway services to eat at a Little Chef - which I cannot recommend.)
In terms of cash, you might want to see if you can find a bank in your area (Seattle?) that can sell you a few pounds just so you have some before arriving and you don't get stuck with an extortionist exchange rate. Although no matter how you pay, you will be charged a pretty hefty fee for the exchange, either by your bank or the nearest Bureau de Change. Most places will take a credit/debit card, I think even taxis and vending machines accept them now, so you could almost go cashless I suppose. However, I will warn you that ever since introducing this diabolical Chip and Pin system, it is a pain in the hat to use a non-UK credit/debit card, and many places won't be able to suss out how to do it. If it is an unmanned purchase, like tickets at a train station, I don't think you can do it at all. It is safest in my opinion to bring cash so you won't be caught out at some point.(The exception is hotels, they are used to international cards.) Remember that banks will NOT exchange coins, and the smallest bill we have here is the £5, so try not to get stuck with too many £1 & £2 coins when you leave, they add up to real money quite quickly.
My biggest piece of advice would be to be sure your mobile is going to work here (hopefully you can get a good deal on overseas usage) and that you have contact numbers for people here in case you need help. There is nothing worse than that feeling of being cut-off from all contact after being so accustomed to being able to look anything up and call anyone you choose. So long as you have your phone, any problem you encounter should be easily remedied.
Hope this helps! I look forward to seeing you again! :)
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(Cariad, you do make me smile!)
The Botanical gardens is a great place to start walking to Grantchester from, as is The Garden Hotel or Trumpington Street. There are two pubs in the village and both do hot food/ coffee etc..if you want a cup of tea then it's got to be The Orchard.
There's a lovely church in Grantchester (I was married there) where you'll find a memorial to Rupert Brooke (poet).
I can take you or simply point you in the right direction, alternatively, Richard must remember the way?! If you'd like to park near the Botanical Gardens you can pick up a permit from me if that helps? Or you could park in Newnham and hope for a space (v close to Grantchester) but do walk along the river, not the Grantchester road.
We'll happily teach you to punt (well, I won't but husband can) . The guided punt tour is informative and you'll see many of the old colleges as you recline/ sip champagne/ bucks fizz (bring your own!) If you are confident about punting you can punt to Grantchester (takes a looonngg time and be careful not to knock out any naturalists swimming! It is very strange to be lying down in a punt only to see a head or other bodily parts appear at eye level!)
Thanks Sugarlump..we'll look forward to Bill's. Anythng anyone needs just ask and we'll try to help.
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Still have not booked a place to stay - waiting on a reply from our second choice of self-catering.
What time is the Newmarket tour, and how long? I'm sure my kids would be interested, just not sure they could handle anything too in-depth (or early!) I don't suppose there's any opportunity to ride a horse there? My younger boy is so animal-obsessed, not sure he could stand to be in the company of horses without jumping on. I'll discuss with Gwyn. Seems silly to go all the way to the area without seeing the famous sites
The Newmarket Tour lasts approximately 90 minutes. You start off in their little cafe and finish there. They take you round the massive stud grounds in an old single decker bus and you get to see lots of foals, some of the mares and the stallions at a safe distance. It is quite interesting and quirky but no riding I'm afraid!
I was going to book the 11.15am morning tour as soon as I get confirmation of numbers. £10 an adult £8 a child over 6 and £25 for family ticket (2 + 2).
let me know what you decide 8)
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Hi all,
I am still going on this trip, but I will not be traveling with Richard like I had thought. Since this will be my first time going anywhere over seas, I will need any and all help/guidance you can share!
I will also be spending the night in London on the 24th, arriving at Cambridge on the 25th, and will stay until the 27th or 28th. Then, back to London, and I will fly out on the 29th.
I am thinking maybe I should go back to London on the 27th so I can enjoy a whole day there? Thoughts? I also have never traveled alone before, so this too will be a first.
Thank you,
KarenInWA
Karen, you will be fine! Travelling alone in London is ideal because there is so much to see and do that sometimes it gets difficult to coordinate plans with someone that might not want to do the same things as you do.
I suspect that you will disembark at Terminal 5 at London Heathrow. You will have to take one of those underground shuttles to passport control/baggage claim. It is well sign posted, and there are airport employees who sort of herd everyone in the right direction. They understand that people coming in from overnight flights might feel too dazed and confused to figure out where to go next. LOL! You will have been given a card to fill out on the plane as you arrive in London that you will give to immigration officials along with your passport. You won't have anything to declare, so you can pick up your bags and go through the "Green Channel" and out to the arrivals lounge.
How will you get to your hotel from Heathrow? Have you made arrangements?
By all means, do spend time in London if at all possible. If you do, be sure to buy an Oyster card because if you pay each fare separately, it becomes really expensive. Public transport in London is quite dear. You can buy an Oyster card at Heathrow and/or at major train termini, but if you prefer, you can buy one online and have it sent to your home in the US. How cool is that? Here's the link:
https://account.tfl.gov.uk/oyster?App=8ead5cf4-4624-4389-b90c-b1fd1937bf1f&returnURL=https://oyster.tfl.gov.uk/oyster/security_check
Last thing...do anything you can to avoid travelling in economy. It is wretched. If you have further questions, maybe I can help. I've been back and forth to London so many times (although usually into Gatwick)!
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...I would not mind to travel to Cambridge (even though I always prefer Oxford...)
...but if anyone travels through London we could meet in London as well... I am very much situated in Central London....South Ken...?
....not far from the Museums... i.e. Victoria and Albert Museum... there is a nice little café in the V&A Museum where we could meet...
... how about it?
I would very much like to meet other IHD members and exchange our experiences... and about our situation in ESRF... how about it....?
....best wishes from Kristina....
P.S. I would really like to meet other IHD members in a rather casual way... if that is possible...?
... we "have met" through our computers - of course - but it would be so much nicer to meet other IHD members in person...
... over a cup of coffee and a little chat and exchange some of our experiences... how about it...?
Thanks ...and I am looking forward to meeting you, in person.... Kristina.
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11:15 is our kind of start time! I think we'll join you for this, just let me double check with the mister. £25 is a generous discount off single tix, and 90 minutes should work perfectly for the boys.
(Cariad, you do make me smile!)
Aw, you're so sweet! Glad I could spread a bit of cheer.
The Botanical gardens is a great place to start walking to Grantchester from, as is The Garden Hotel or Trumpington Street. There are two pubs in the village and both do hot food/ coffee etc..if you want a cup of tea then it's got to be The Orchard.
There's a lovely church in Grantchester (I was married there) where you'll find a memorial to Rupert Brooke (poet).
I can take you or simply point you in the right direction, alternatively, Richard must remember the way?! If you'd like to park near the Botanical Gardens you can pick up a permit from me if that helps? Or you could park in Newnham and hope for a space (v close to Grantchester) but do walk along the river, not the Grantchester road.
We'll happily teach you to punt (well, I won't but husband can) . The guided punt tour is informative and you'll see many of the old colleges as you recline/ sip champagne/ bucks fizz (bring your own!) If you are confident about punting you can punt to Grantchester (takes a looonngg time and be careful not to knock out any naturalists swimming! It is very strange to be lying down in a punt only to see a head or other bodily parts appear at eye level!)
Thanks Sugarlump..we'll look forward to Bill's. Anythng anyone needs just ask and we'll try to help.
Trouble is everything sounds so lovely, I want to do it all. Since we'll most likely be staying outside town, we may take you up on the car permit offer if you're sure you don't mind. I'll have to find a Bucks Fizz recipe and start practicing my mixology now. And if The Orchard is a must for tea then you may as well reserve my table now and just check in on my once or twice over the weekend. :)
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Woo-hoo! We found a self-catering place! We're booked in, staying four miles past Newmarket.
We'll join you all on the tour if you don't mind us crashing the event.
Next task, getting orders from the boys (including the oversized one) for Bill's. I shall return with those, eventually.
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It's me again! Yes, I will be traveling by myself on a flight from SEA - Iceland, Iceland to London on Icelandair. It was the best priced flight and had the quickest travel time, both coming and going. Sadly, I will be in Economy class, but oh well. It's better than cargo! LOL!!!
I need to find transportation from Heathrow to downtown London. I had a misunderstanding with Richard, so I will be traveling with him the rest of the way. What I need to decide is do I want to stay in Cambridge Sunday night, or move on to London and have a day or 2 there by myself? I leave London Tuesday.
How far is Cambridge from Stonehedge?
Thank you all for all of your travel advice - I need all that I can get!!! Oh, and I will be landing at Terminal 1 at the airport. Probably because it's from Iceland?
KarenInWA
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@ Karen Take ipod/iphone and headphones with music for flight and eye mask. Even if you can't sleep, it will help you relax!
London is really worth a good day or so. Not just for sightseeing (Buckingham Palace/Changing of the guard/Tower Bridge/Hyde Park ... the list is endless!) but also for incredible shopping/window shopping
especially places like Harrods, Hamleys and Oxford Street!!!
Remember it often rains in England when packing!!! April is known for it's showers! (and sunshine hopefully)
Do you want to go on the Stud Tour? (I don't know if you are horsey at all!!!!) otherwise there will be plenty of others not going, in the hotel that might go for wander into Cambridge etc.
You're booked in for Bill's on Sat night and the punting on Sunday morning?
Hey it's getting closer! :2thumbsup;
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It's me again! Yes, I will be traveling by myself on a flight from SEA - Iceland, Iceland to London on Icelandair. It was the best priced flight and had the quickest travel time, both coming and going. Sadly, I will be in Economy class, but oh well. It's better than cargo! LOL!!!
I need to find transportation from Heathrow to downtown London. I had a misunderstanding with Richard, so I will be traveling with him the rest of the way. What I need to decide is do I want to stay in Cambridge Sunday night, or move on to London and have a day or 2 there by myself? I leave London Tuesday.
How far is Cambridge from Stonehedge?
Thank you all for all of your travel advice - I need all that I can get!!! Oh, and I will be landing at Terminal 1 at the airport. Probably because it's from Iceland?
KarenInWA
I've never flown Icelandair but even on economy you should have your own screen with free films and television, so that will pass the time, and you should get a basic toiletries kit with sleeping mask, toothbrush/paste, comb, socks, lotion. If you enjoy a glass of wine they usually have complimentary choices with lunch/dinner and that helps me sleep. The extra time in the air is difficult, but they do make up for it somewhat by being nicer and giving you a bit more as part of the package. You can walk around, and sometimes you get a friendly crowd. When I flew to LAX with my kids last year there was a group of Brits at the back who were just standing around chatting. Every time I walked back there they wanted to pour me a beer and talk.
Is your passport far from expiration? There is some rule about not traveling to/from the US if you have less than six months left on your passport, but I'm not sure if it's just a suggestion or enforced. One thing you will undoubtedly conclude is that the US has the most uptight, humourless, paranoid airport employees on earth. The contrast with other countries is obvious. It's amazing what a difference a smile and a few pleasantries make to a trip.
If you plan on doing any shopping in London (spending in the 100s of pounds) be sure to ask for VAT back forms. Assuming they haven't changed the laws, as a non-EU resident you are entitled to receive the tax back on your purchases of any items that you will be using outside of the country (clothes, souvenirs, etc.). VAT is 20% so a sizeable amount of money. I wouldn't ask if you are only spending a few quid, and I imagine shops outside London won't necessarily have the forms (there should be a VAT back sticker in the window of any shop that offers it). Most shops were happy to give me the forms. The only one I ever had a problem with was Burberry on Regent, and that was nearly 15 years ago and I've avoided that brand ever since. (I have a long memory for these sorts of things, and I am unforgiving when an overpriced clothier is anything but the picture of hospitality and gratitude!)
Sadly no, Stonehenge is pretty far from Cambridge, a good 3 hours I would estimate, and probably just over an hour past London. Where exactly do you need to get to in central London? The underground should be able to get you within a few blocks of your hotel if you feel you can handle that experience after a 10-12 hours flight with all of your bags.
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Some REALLY good suggestions there re visiting UK/London etc. I totally support purchase of an Oyster card up front (I did this a few years ago, will top up mine shortly to make sure I have enough myself), the VAT refund is very important.. is it still 17.5 or 18%?) and so on.
Karen will be on FI (IcelandAir) on 757-200's (http://www.seatguru.com/airlines/Icelandair/Icelandair_Boeing_757-200.php) and they do suggest they have in seat video which is surprising. I had thought they are more a budget carrier. Seat pitch at 32" is generous by most standards so some comfort, but it's still coach. It's under 12 hours of total travel time which is not too bad for west coast -> LHR (If I have the correct flight details. Karen can correct ::) ). As for me, I've got nigh on 28 hours of travel to get there, but it is true I will be in Business Class which some appropriation of a lie flat seat on Finnair for the overnight portion, though the last section on a crummy BA A320 for 3hours. ugh. But I digress.
I'm arriving around 3 hours ahead of Karen, which is not ideal in terms of us meeting up. Not sure how that will work out.
Anyway I was thinking of staying at a hotel about half a mile from Liverpool St station in London (for the train up to Camb) and a not too bad connection on the tube via Hammersmith. Should be reasonable to get there even with a suitcase off peak before the tube gets mental. Would hate to be on the tube in Central London with suitcases during peak time :)
Personally if it was my first time in the UK/London, and given how tired one usually is on arrival in the UK from long haul travel, I think spending Sunday and Monday in London "doing the sights" makes sense. Me, I've been there done that, so I'm actually staying in Camb at the HI on the Sunday night and plan a leisurely pace back to the "big smoke" prior to a 9pm flight to Dubai. That's just me though :)
Back to the matter at hand of stuff in Camb - I think some things like the gardens and maybe a college tour and so on will definitely rely on the weather co-operating. We'll just have to play it by ear as it were.. one general rule for England for me :)
Another suggestion for Karen is to find if her bank has an agreement with a UK bank for fee free withdrawls and so on. For example my bank has an agreement with Barclays in the UK for access. Still get the conversion cost, but the extra few quid for transaction fees being zero'd is definitely helpful.
:)
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Coach is not that bad! I dreaded it with the boys, but it was actually worse for me being alone. The time passed in a flash going from Heathrow to LAX on Virgin. I know most of you probably use miles. I know I could never pay the asking price in cash for a business or first class ticket - you could get a week at a lovely hotel for what they charge for you to be able to be more comfortable for a handful of hours. I am fine with coach but wouldn't turn down a higher class ticket if someone is offering. :) I prefer an aisle seat so I don't have to worry about someone falling asleep and blocking my path to the loo.
Personally if it was my first time in the UK/London, and given how tired one usually is on arrival in the UK from long haul travel, I think spending Sunday and Monday in London "doing the sights" makes sense. Me, I've been there done that, so I'm actually staying in Camb at the HI on the Sunday night and plan a leisurely pace back to the "big smoke" prior to a 9pm flight to Dubai. That's just me though :)
I'm more an 'explore one place at a time' person, so I'd be more inclined to stay in Cambridge and leave feeling like I had really seen it, and then if I liked the experience make plans to spend a week or two in London in future. Another money saving tip, most of the big attractions these days give a discount if you book online at least a couple days in advance and print your tix out before you go. I know the London Eye does this (frankly I wouldn't bother, we have to go because it appeals to the kids, but the price is ridiculous). Many museums in London are absolutely free (or they were 10-15 years ago) so if that interests you, you could make a day of that, although Sunday/Monday are the days they are most likely shut, so check first. If you want to catch a West End show, they offer Sunday matinees but Monday is traditionally dark in theatre no matter what country you're in. I guess if you do decide to go to London it would be helpful to know what interests you most and then see if anyone has suggestions from there. I don't like the big name shops, but a place like Camden Market (again, I'm thinking back 15 years and I've heard it's changed for the worse) is the type of place that attracts me. Also, I am all about street food, and had the most divine cuisine at Southbank Centre last summer. There's also the huge Borough Market not too far from there. Ideal if you're traveling solo as you don't have to go through the awkwardness of interacting with wait staff. There were two relatively new buildings in London last we were there - The Shard and The Gherkin.You'll know them when you see them. If you like views and architecture, you can travel up into The Shard but I think it's pricey. (I think the Gherkin should be called the Bullet, but then it occurred to me that many Brits probably have little idea what a bullet looks like. Of course it's the first thing that sprang to my mind!)
Another suggestion for Karen is to find if her bank has an agreement with a UK bank for fee free withdrawls and so on. For example my bank has an agreement with Barclays in the UK for access. Still get the conversion cost, but the extra few quid for transaction fees being zero'd is definitely helpful.
We probably should have looked into this when we came over. Although I imagine with our credit union we would've been out of luck. Karen, if you do find such an arrangement I would appreciate hearing about it. I know if you have AmEx Platinum you pay no fee, and of course all of us just have stacks of platinum cards in our wallets so this is totally useful information!
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Cariad ... how old are your boys? The National Stud Tour and The Punting have differing age limits! ::)
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The problem with coach is that if you are traveling alone, you don't know who you might be sitting next to. The last time I flew coach, I was in the middle of a row, and the man sitting next to me (in the window seat) was a walking, talking furnace. He was, like, 6' 3" and was wearing a woolly jumper that made me sweat just looking at it. Whenever I flew with my son, we flew coach because, well, he was little back then, so we'd pull up the seat divider between our seats and had plenty of room to share.
Karen, since you are stopping in Iceland, are you also having to change planes? If so, won't you have to go through customs and immigration there? And since Iceland is not part of the EU, doesn't that mean you'll have to go through Customs and Immigration again at Heathrow? Anyone know?
I have an Amex Platinum card, but I didn't use it in the UK because it doesn't have a computer chip. I still have all of my UK cards and my current account at NatWest, so currency/exchange rate issues are something I thankfully get to avoid. I guess all of those years living in England did give me some benefits after all!
Karen, there are so many things to see and do in London, but if you have good weather while you are there, you may want to consider visiting Kew Gardens. Take the Tube to Kew. It is not only beautiful but also of great historic significance!
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Cariad ... how old are your boys? The National Stud Tour and The Punting have differing age limits! ::)
Oh dear! I don't like where this is going.... :(
Here's the thing with that, just tell me what age they need to be and, within reason, that's how old they are. >:D I am often asked if my two boys are twins, much to the chagrin of my older son (aged 11). We lie all the time about my younger boy's age (7), he's used to it and pulls it off very well. I tell people he talks like a 12-year-old, looks like a 10-year-old, but emotionally he's very much a 7-year-old. I am more concerned about the punting as I know they'd really enjoy that experience.
Thanks for handling all of these annoying details, Sugar. You're a star!
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Cariad ... how old are your boys? The National Stud Tour and The Punting have differing age limits! ::)
Oh dear! I don't like where this is going.... :(
Here's the thing with that, just tell me what age they need to be and, within reason, that's how old they are. >:D I am often asked if my two boys are twins, much to the chagrin of my older son (aged 11). We lie all the time about my younger boy's age (7), he's used to it and pulls it off very well. I tell people he talks like a 12-year-old, looks like a 10-year-old, but emotionally he's very much a 7-year-old. I am more concerned about the punting as I know they'd really enjoy that experience.
Thanks for handling all of these annoying details, Sugar. You're a star!
S'alright organisation is one of the things I am good at!
taking care of the detail
You're safe (giggles) it's up to 12 on Punting and 15 on Stud Tour!!!
It will be good to have them on the punting and the Stud Tour, children se things in different ways and hopefully they will love Bills too ;D
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Cariad ... how old are your boys? The National Stud Tour and The Punting have differing age limits! ::)
Oh dear! I don't like where this is going.... :(
Here's the thing with that, just tell me what age they need to be and, within reason, that's how old they are. >:D I am often asked if my two boys are twins, much to the chagrin of my older son (aged 11). We lie all the time about my younger boy's age (7), he's used to it and pulls it off very well. I tell people he talks like a 12-year-old, looks like a 10-year-old, but emotionally he's very much a 7-year-old. I am more concerned about the punting as I know they'd really enjoy that experience.
Thanks for handling all of these annoying details, Sugar. You're a star!
S'alright organisation is one of the things I am good at!
taking care of the detail
You're safe (giggles) it's up to 12 on Punting and 15 on Stud Tour!!!
It will be good to have them on the punting and the Stud Tour, children se things in different ways and hopefully they will love Bills too ;D
Oohhhhh! See I thought you were asking because they wouldn't be allowed to do it if they were too young. We haven't lied to save money (yet) but I'm sure that's in our future, especially before Aidan hits his long-anticipated growth spurt.
I'm sure they will love the experiences, and the company! They both eat up the extra attention they get when they're the only kids. Pair of attention whores, those two! :rofl;
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Gah, now I'm ticked off.
The owner/landlord of these self-catering places in the Cambridge area emailed Gwyn March 12 saying if we wanted this flat for our meet weekend to let her know, and he did immediately. She has now written back to say that that weekend is booked but we can have their bed and breakfast instead, for one night, then MOVE to another place where we can stay for Saturday and Sunday night. Oh, gee, thanks. We can disrupt our weekend with a move in the middle (cause those are such fun!) and then stay an extra night to meet her minimum night requirements for her cottage. The kids have school the following Monday, we are *not* staying Sunday night.
Gwyn is emailing her back to demand to know why she reneged on our agreement. Not sure what we're going to do now but will update when I know. Once we have another place, well, TripAdvisor Reviews here we come!
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Just bumping this up to remind peeps that we ARE having
a get together in ENGLAND on April 25th/26th/27th in Cambridge UK
Make sure you pencil it in your diary!
Can't promise you brilliant weather but we will have some fun, a good meal or two, Cambridge is a wonderful city to amble around or shop,
and a good hotel to hang around in.
:beer1; :2thumbsup; :ukflag;
Hi sugarlump do you mean april 2015 thanks very much have a lovely week-end.
Regards
Dublin :2thumbsup;
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Just bumping this up to remind peeps that we ARE having
a get together in ENGLAND on April 25th/26th/27th in Cambridge UK
Make sure you pencil it in your diary!
Can't promise you brilliant weather but we will have some fun, a good meal or two, Cambridge is a wonderful city to amble around or shop,
and a good hotel to hang around in.
:beer1; :2thumbsup; :ukflag;
Hi sugarlump do you mean april 2015 thanks very much have a lovely week-end.
Regards
Dublin :2thumbsup;
No 2014!!! Friday 25th April this year!
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Gah, now I'm ticked off.
The owner/landlord of these self-catering places in the Cambridge area emailed Gwyn March 12 saying if we wanted this flat for our meet weekend to let her know, and he did immediately. She has now written back to say that that weekend is booked but we can have their bed and breakfast instead, for one night, then MOVE to another place where we can stay for Saturday and Sunday night. Oh, gee, thanks. We can disrupt our weekend with a move in the middle (cause those are such fun!) and then stay an extra night to meet her minimum night requirements for her cottage. The kids have school the following Monday, we are *not* staying Sunday night.
Gwyn is emailing her back to demand to know why she reneged on our agreement. Not sure what we're going to do now but will update when I know. Once we have another place, well, TripAdvisor Reviews here we come!
That's not good. Not good at all. >:(
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www.HomeAway.co.uk have some cheap n cheerful cottages/flats in Cambridge area.
Inc Garden Cottage at Swafham Prior near Newmarket.
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Also Cariad have you tried Cambridge University Accomodation Services..if you fancy staying in the heart of the city?
It might be a bit late to book a couple of rooms in a college but the university does own many places offering short term bookings. Some cheap rooms starting from £20 a night (£50 twin room) or house in city centre. There's one for £525 (3 nights. See Regency House Apartments - not all great reviews but you are a hop into town). The accommodation services have a selection at the moment. If you phone them you'll find them very helpful too. They sometimes offer parking permits for their guests at £1.60 a day (or have a free one and walk to our house - a good work out for somebody?)
Good Luck with your search..
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Coach is not that bad! I dreaded it with the boys, but it was actually worse for me being alone. The time passed in a flash going from Heathrow to LAX on Virgin. I know most of you probably use miles. I know I could never pay the asking price in cash for a business or first class ticket - you could get a week at a lovely hotel for what they charge for you to be able to be more comfortable for a handful of hours. I am fine with coach but wouldn't turn down a higher class ticket if someone is offering. :) I prefer an aisle seat so I don't have to worry about someone falling asleep and blocking my path to the loo.
Sorry I guess I come across as a snob or somerthing. It's mostly about comfort for me and Danny, and I am VERY lucky I can afford, one way or another (this trip is a mixture of miles-I would NEVER pay for the insanity of Emirates First Class longhaul-and cash, but your points are all very valid. I take the aisle on long night flights(nothing much to see) for this very reason - unless the seat is both a window and an aisle, which is almost usually only in First, or certain rare staggered Business Class configurations, but I digress....
Dear Cariad you do not need to travel on a plane to this meet, so that offer is off the table, plus I am not sure Gwyn would be too happy with such an arrangement !!! :rofl; :rofl; :rofl; :rofl; :rofl; :rofl;
[quiote]
I'm more an 'explore one place at a time' person, so I'd be more inclined to stay in Cambridge and leave feeling like I had really seen it, and then if I liked the experience make plans to spend a week or two in London in future. Another money saving tip, most of the big attractions these days give a discount if you book online at least a couple days in advance and print your tix out before you go. I know the London Eye does this (frankly I wouldn't bother, we have to go because it appeals to the kids, but the price is ridiculous). Many museums in London are absolutely free (or they were 10-15 years ago) so if that interests you, you could make a day of that, although Sunday/Monday are the days they are most likely shut, so check first. If you want to catch a West End show, they offer Sunday matinees but Monday is traditionally dark in theatre no matter what country you're in. I guess if you do decide to go to London it would be helpful to know what interests you most and then see if anyone has suggestions from there. I don't like the big name shops, but a place like Camden Market (again, I'm thinking back 15 years and I've heard it's changed for the worse) is the type of place that attracts me. Also, I am all about street food, and had the most divine cuisine at Southbank Centre last summer. There's also the huge Borough Market not too far from there. Ideal if you're traveling solo as you don't have to go through the awkwardness of interacting with wait staff. There were two relatively new buildings in London last we were there - The Shard and The Gherkin.You'll know them when you see them. If you like views and architecture, you can travel up into The Shard but I think it's pricey. (I think the Gherkin should be called the Bullet, but then it occurred to me that many Brits probably have little idea what a bullet looks like. Of course it's the first thing that sprang to my mind!)
[/quote]
again some good suggestions there :)
I guess I was trying to think like the casual traveller who may or may not return to the UK so a priority may be to see some of what London has to offer. Each to his/her own I guess. I certainly wouldn't be one to tell Karen (or anyone else) what to do with their time :) (not that you were either, of course!)
Another suggestion for Karen is to find if her bank has an agreement with a UK bank for fee free withdrawls and so on. For example my bank has an agreement with Barclays in the UK for access. Still get the conversion cost, but the extra few quid for transaction fees being zero'd is definitely helpful.
We probably should have looked into this when we came over. Although I imagine with our credit union we would've been out of luck. Karen, if you do find such an arrangement I would appreciate hearing about it. I know if you have AmEx Platinum you pay no fee, and of course all of us just have stacks of platinum cards in our wallets so this is totally useful information!
[/quote]
My bank has agreements with Barclays as I mentioned, and also Bank of America. I have some sort of feeling they are in some sort of global alliance of banks together (Paribas is another I've used in France/Spain).
ah here we are... the Global ATM Alliance: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Global_ATM_Alliance
there may be others as well of course.
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The problem with coach is that if you are traveling alone, you don't know who you might be sitting next to. The last time I flew coach, I was in the middle of a row, and the man sitting next to me (in the window seat) was a walking, talking furnace. He was, like, 6' 3" and was wearing a woolly jumper that made me sweat just looking at it. Whenever I flew with my son, we flew coach because, well, he was little back then, so we'd pull up the seat divider between our seats and had plenty of room to share.
yeah not to be picky and such, but you have that in Business Class too (except in some circumstances) and domestic/regional "First" Class products. Only in the really long haul products do you see single seats/suites where you do not have to see or talk to another passenger if you don't want to. Although come to think of it I just realised I have a single seat with no neighbour flying Melbourne-Hong Kong in biz. However I digress....
Certainly not being able to control who you sit with can be one of the good, or bad, parts of travel - be it plane, train or whatever. Recently I've sat next to both nice/interesting people, and some I just wish would shut up... the point is well made. Since I almost always travel by myself I am very familiar with this situation.
Karen, since you are stopping in Iceland, are you also having to change planes? If so, won't you have to go through customs and immigration there? And since Iceland is not part of the EU, doesn't that mean you'll have to go through Customs and Immigration again at Heathrow? Anyone know?
I am almost certain there will be no customs/immigration involved in Iceland for a transit. She's not entering the country or anything. Possibly a security check, but that's pretty normal for international transfers at most airports - but more than likely not like the USA with belt off, shoes off, all that crap, just the more relaxed security - though to be fair I have not transferred at KEF myself so can't say from personal experience of that particular port. This page suggests that a transit is very easy: http://boards.cruisecritic.com/archive/index.php/t-1656166.html
I have an Amex Platinum card, but I didn't use it in the UK because it doesn't have a computer chip. I still have all of my UK cards and my current account at NatWest, so currency/exchange rate issues are something I thankfully get to avoid. I guess all of those years living in England did give me some benefits after all!
Karen, there are so many things to see and do in London, but if you have good weather while you are there, you may want to consider visiting Kew Gardens. Take the Tube to Kew. It is not only beautiful but also of great historic significance!
Oh that reminds me VERY good point about the chip. Most US cards do *not* have the chip/PIN system, and it's becoming harder in europe to get by just on a signature (and as an aside, legally impossible in Australia post August this year when signing for a purchase will be no longer allowed). So my advice is to try to get hold of a card, or replacement card (if the bank supports it yet) with a chip as it will be much easier in the UK and other places going forward.
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Cariad, that is a bulltish situation from the owner of the self catering place. I wonder if it's also some kind of scam to extort more $$$ out of you for a B&B vs the self catering thing. I don't like the sound of that. If an arrangement is accepted, in writing, that should be that short of a disaster like a flood washes away the place or something. Sounds like a shoddy operation. I'd be tempted to look elsewhere and tempted to tell them to stick their booking - if they can't manage the booking thing properly what else is not acceptable about the place?
I'd be very ticked off too. I hope this works out OK!! So want to see you and Gwyn again - let alone your boys who we all hear so much about! :)
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Right folks, I just want to finalise attendance details:
Saturday 27th April am National Stud Tour:
Sugar and Drew
Richard
Cariad ,Gwyn and boys
Saturday 27th April pm Bills Restaurant: (Don't forget I need starter and/or main course choices by midApril please)
Sugar and Drew
Richard
Cariad, Gwyn and boys
Cassandra and hubby
Poppy and Blokey
Iona and hubby
Karen
Sunday 28th April am Private Punting Tour: (Hats optional)
Sugar and Drew
Richard
Cariad, Gwyn and boys
Cassandra and hubby
Poppy
Karen
If I have missed anyone off shout loudly now!
That should leave plenty of times in between for more casual stuff, like a meet and greet Friday night at HI Express bar and
wandering round Cambridge sightseeing or shopping!
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You can add me to the stud tour!
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Sorry SL we are not in the Punting Tour
Thank you for organizing all this. :thx;
Love Cas
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No problem
I posted the lists for that very reason to check.
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Cariad, that is a bulltish situation from the owner of the self catering place. I wonder if it's also some kind of scam to extort more $$$ out of you for a B&B vs the self catering thing. I don't like the sound of that. If an arrangement is accepted, in writing, that should be that short of a disaster like a flood washes away the place or something. Sounds like a shoddy operation. I'd be tempted to look elsewhere and tempted to tell them to stick their booking - if they can't manage the booking thing properly what else is not acceptable about the place?
I'd be very ticked off too. I hope this works out OK!! So want to see you and Gwyn again - let alone your boys who we all hear so much about! :)
Yeah, I found the whole thing shady and best avoided in the end. Really looking forward to seeing you again, Richard. You can regale us with tales of your many adventures with Danny since we last met. :)
We are now officially booked in to a travelodge for the weekend. Not my first choice (obviously) but as it cost literally half of what we were going to pay anywhere else, we are taking the risk. Thanks for that suggestion, Iona. We chose a recently refurbished one and we won't be eating at the onsite restaurant, so hoping it won't be too scary an experience. Unfortunately, the one walking distance to the Holiday Inn was fully booked, so we're staying on the opposite end of town. The University Housing suggestion (also from Iona) was grand, if we ever decide to take another holiday in Cambridge we will stay longer and book through them. Sooooo many lovely looking places, but sadly the places that would have suited us were already booked.
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You can add me to the stud tour!
I love referring to it as 'the stud tour'. So full of double entendre possibilities! :)
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You can add me to the stud tour!
I love referring to it as 'the stud tour'. So full of double entendre possibilities! :)
Especially with Richard in tow!!!! :rofl;
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Especially with Richard in tow!!!! :rofl;
I was waiting for someone to "go there" - you did not disappoint!! :)
that tour is... no i shall hold that thought! :)
:rofl; :rofl; :rofl; :rofl;
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Ooh ooh ooooh it's April already!!!! :bandance;
Just to confirm:
1) Saturday 26th April. AM. I have booked the National Stud Tour at Newmarket.
Tour commences at 11.15am
We need to be there 15-20 minutes beforehand and don't forget packet of polos for Amberley House (ex Grand National Winner)
2)Saturday 26th April. PM. Table is booked for 14 at Bills Restaurant, Green Street, Cambridge.
7.30pm
DON'T FORGET : you need to choose your starter and/or mains and let me know, preferably this week!!!!! :P
3)Sunday 27th April. AM. We have a private punt booked for us for 11am at Mill Lane Punting Station,Cambridge.
The tour of The Backs etc lasts an hour (Just in time for lunch)
Hats optional!!!!!!
I know I sound like a sergeant major :rofl; but I want our get together to go well... :welcomesign;
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Awesome organisation SL :)
so any thoughts for transportation for us non locals to various places like the studs (I know, all I need is a mirror, right? :p :rofl;). I haven't mapped it but is Bill's etc walking distance from the hotel same with the punting station? I love that Cambridge is a walking city (don't get me on a bike. Last time I did that in Camb was 25 years ago, I had better vision even at 2am when drunk!!! but that's a whole other story)..
Anyway for other stuff, eg: Sat afternoon, Sun afternoon (if we do not go on the walk to the gardens/pub as suggested by Iona earlier) here's a search of events on:
http://www.visitcambridge.org/whats-on/searchresults?sr=1&rd=on&stay=2014-04-25&end=2014-04-27
Total trivial aside. I just got myself some folding money and I got some old 50's and new 50's. I hadn't seen the new notes before. Ripped off!! One of my fave parts of English paper currency has been the silver/metal thread through the note.. and now it seems ot be gone!! btw this does not mean I am shouting the bar :)
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Rich ... a lot of places won't take £50 notes!!! (Used to be a lot of forgeries floating about) :rofl; Try and change them in London bank if you can!!!!
As regards transport :
1) To the Stud, you and Karen can come in our car and we will meet Cariad and Gwynn and boys there in theirs.
It's not far!
2) Bills ... we can share a taxi there and back so we can drink ... bit too far to walk (specially for me I'd need a piggyback!)
3) Punting again we can take up to 3 in our car with us or those who feellike a leisurely walk can meet up there!)
It isn't too far to walk/or to bus stops etc for casual meanderings inbetween!
I have paid up front for Stud tickets and punting, but happy for you to pay me on the day. There were enough of us to have a private guided punt
and we could still fit two extras in!!!
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P.S. Don't forget to choose your mains and/or starters etc for Bills and let me know!!!
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Awesome SL :) thank you. how much is the stud tour. Will you accept 50 quid? LOL
yeah I should be changing into smaller bills when in London, but seriously Cambs isn't THAT small that they wouldn't accept a 50.. really? ugh.
always a problem when changing money.
Still I have some 2's and 1 and 2 quid coins and silver from previous visits so I'll be fine. Plus I have a CC that will work there. no problemo.
OK Bills...
for me.... starters not too much there for me, though would be willing to share the crab, chilli and prawn cakes :)
The main, since I carry on like one, the suffolk pork chop looks like it would be the go.
PS: 2 extra spots for the punt. I'll keep it in mind if I pick up on Sat night!!! :rofl; :rofl; :rofl; :rofl; (is that a Cambridge pick up line? "Hey baby, how'd you like to come back to my punt?" :rofl; :rofl; :rofl;)
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The Punting is £15 per adult £7.50 per child.
The Stud Tour is £10 per adult (Family ticket for Cariad is £25)
Bills ... I think I will probably have : starter Potato and rosemary bread with oil and vinegar
main slow roasted belly of Pork (specials menu)
I would have gone halves with you Rich on the crab cakes which I love but not with chilli in them!!!
And I really fancy the roasted vine soup (but everyone will be tut tutting me >:( )
The mini doughnuts for desert are good but I don't usually have space at that point!!!
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Drew (that's my partner) has chosen to share my starter!!! and Bill's style bbq pork ribs !
Start choosing folks :) ???
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It looks like we owe you £70 for the activities, Sugar! If you want to PM me your bank account number and sort code I would be happy to pay you via BACS this weekend.
Here are our orders for Bills:
Me - halloumi and hummus burger. (Could I be a pain and get the yoghurt sauce on the side?)
Gwyn - sugar and spice marinated chicken
Aidan - BBQ pork ribs (do you happen to know if these are spicy? Aidan does not tolerate more than a touch of heat.)
Dylan - chicken skewers with cous cous (kids menu)
Starter - crispy lemon squid for Gwyn and the kids
We are going to leave it there, hopefully if we want to add a bread starter that will be doable on the day. Am I right that we don't have to order dessert in advance? We also would find it difficult to predict if we will want dessert or not until after we've eaten.
3 weeks!!! :waving;
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BBQ sauce is normally not to hot in the spicy sense of the word though I have never eaten them there.
I imagine extra bread or salad or suchlike will be fine on the night and as for deserts, leave to see who still has room!
I know i usually don't!!
Yep three weeks to go :grouphug;
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It looks like we owe you £70 for the activities, Sugar! If you want to PM me your bank account number and sort code I would be happy to pay you via BACS this weekend.
3 weeks!!! :waving;
PSSSST Cariad you need to empty your inbox to receive any more pm's cos it's full :o
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It looks like we owe you £70 for the activities, Sugar! If you want to PM me your bank account number and sort code I would be happy to pay you via BACS this weekend.
3 weeks!!! :waving;
PSSSST Cariad you need to empty your inbox to receive any more pm's cos it's full :o
D'oh! My secret's out! I am incredibly lazy about this. Don't think I've deleted more than a handful of PMs since I joined five years ago!!!!
I'll try to send you a PM with my personal email account. If that doesn't work, I start on the tedious task of deciding which PMs to ditch. Sorry for the hassle!
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OK, Sugar, sent you a PM with my personal email address and it said it was successfully sent. Hope so! Please send me the BACs info as an email if you don't mind! :beer1;
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Done and dusted whilst enjoying my breakfast :2thumbsup;
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oh didn't realise we could order from the specials menu and I missed the soup. that sounds interesting....
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I want the beer-battered cod!! :)
KarenInWA
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oh didn't realise we could order from the specials menu and I missed the soup. that sounds interesting....
You can change your mind Rich if you're quick but if you have the soup I wouldn't sit next to me as you might find it going down quicker than you expect :rofl; :rofl; :rofl;
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Hi I've got the menu- orders at last. Tony (that's hubby) will have the crispy squid, and the slow cooked belly pork (from the 'specials'). I'll have the avocado /spinach salad for starters and the same slow cooked belly pork.
Was it you SL who wanted 'easy to read, stress free' books to read? Than I'll bring some.
Love, Cas
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Hi I've got the menu- orders at last. Tony (that's hubby) will have the crispy squid, and the slow cooked belly pork (from the 'specials'). I'll have the avocado /spinach salad for starters and the same slow cooked belly pork.
Was it you SL who wanted 'easy to read, stress free' books to read? Than I'll bring some.
Love, Cas
Thanks Cas, much appreciated. We munch though an amazing number of books aw week because of dialysis!!!
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:shy;
You don't happen to read in Dutch as well? ;D
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Sadly no ;D
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I'll stick with the crab cakes and the suffolk pork chop :)
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Hey don't forget to bring your panama hat!!
Has anybody heard from Poppy???? :waving;
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How's that song go? "... A big Panama with a purple hat band...."
er.. no :)
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Hello Sugarlump,
Your days out look alot of fun. Hope it's sunny!
Sorry for the delay in getting our orders to you but here they are;
Starters, for me -crispy squid, hubbie- bruschetta
and for mains, me- (another starter) crab/chilli cakes and side order of skinny fries and hubbie - beer battered cod please.
I'd feel an awful lot less guilty if Sugar would have her vine tomato soup? (I will off course be sharing my fries with everybody!)
Really looking forward to this occasion and meeting you all.
:thx; to Sugarlump for organising all this xx
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Ooo I'm really getting exited about meeting you all. Than I had some sort of nightmarish feeling that we were going to be wandering around Cambridge without actually meeting anyone till dinner, cos I have no idea what we look like (yes I know how I, and hubby look like :blank:
, and of course Cambridge will be lovely, but.... Can we all have a recognisable feature or something?
Love, Cas
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Well Cassandra, not sure when you (plural) are arriving, but SL is having a meet and greet at the Holidy Inn from what 4-6ish Friday afternoon so we can all meet there. I know KarenINWA and I will be arriving at Camb by train just after 3 (bought the tickets) so should be there well in time for that. And there's the stud thing sat morning, but I suspect once that is done, I'm thinking 1 or 2.. maybe a laz afternoon for some, or a lateish lunch at a pub?
(SL how long is the stud tour? Could we fit in lunch after?). Maybe Cassandra and hubby could meet us all or some of us at a pub or something?
I suspect also if UK locals exchange phone numbers then it will be a lot easier to just say "hey we're at such-and-such" and connect up.
btw I'm the one that looks like the pic and with the funny accent :rofl;
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Stud tour will finish about 1pm. Happy to exchange mobile number for texts over weekend.
How will you recognize me ... ask Rich if you find him first!!!! ;D
I think I have everyones meal choices except Poppy and Poppy's blokey???
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I think I have everyones meal choices except Poppy and Poppy's blokey???
Sorry! Will get them to you asap. Haven't been on for ages due to stuff, so ... Also, not sure I'll be able to make the Sunday now. But definitely still up for Bill's, in a nervous way.
;D
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Last thing -if anybody wants to dialyse on Friday morning (8am) at Addenbrooke's you are welcome to have my slot..I'm sure I could make the afternoon one, or evening maybe? The unit is friendly, nurses lovely, tea and lime juice(mmm), ice-cubes, biscuits, rolls and sarnies provided.
If he ever has to go back on dialysis Blokey will be pleased about the sandwich situation ... at the same time as he had his transplant he was told by Dr. Sexy Neph that they were stopping the sandwiches!! He was livid, until he realised it didn't affect him anymore. I'm guessing other people were livid too.
;D
Sugar, you'll probably have read my PM that I'm about to send you before you read this. It will have menu choices!
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God bless Dr.Sexy neph, he must have saved the day!!!
Although you@d think saving transplants rather than sandwiches would be more likely!!!
I jest because actually, he did try bloody hard to save mine and tried everything humanly possible. Who knows, maybe a 3rd will appear one day :P
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It looks like we owe you £70 for the activities, Sugar! If you want to PM me your bank account number and sort code I would be happy to pay you via BACS this weekend.
Here are our orders for Bills:
Me - halloumi and hummus burger. (Could I be a pain and get the yoghurt sauce on the side?)
Gwyn - sugar and spice marinated chicken
Aidan - BBQ pork ribs (do you happen to know if these are spicy? Aidan does not tolerate more than a touch of heat.)
Dylan - chicken skewers with cous cous (kids menu)
Starter - crispy lemon squid for Gwyn and the kids
We are going to leave it there, hopefully if we want to add a bread starter that will be doable on the day. Am I right that we don't have to order dessert in advance? We also would find it difficult to predict if we will want dessert or not until after we've eaten.
3 weeks!!! :waving;
11 days!!!! :waving;
Just sorting out email to Bills with our choices.
Question do you want 1 or 3 portions of crispy squid ? I am assuming 1 but correct me if I am wrong :Kit n Stik;
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A good friend of mine is throwing me a British send off this Friday night. I am bringing Heinz Spotted Dick, because we all just can't get over the name. How common is that over there? Do any of you Brits enjoy it? It's always good for a laugh, isn't it?
:P
KarenInWA
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A good friend of mine is throwing me a British send off this Friday night. I am bringing Heinz Spotted Dick, because we all just can't get over the name. How common is that over there? Do any of you Brits enjoy it? It's always good for a laugh, isn't it?
:P
KarenInWA
:rofl;
Yep you can still buy Spotted Dick in tins though my partner says do check you can take it back with you okay through customs. Lots of countries have regulations about various products.
It does contain dried fruit but it is cooked.
You really don't want to get arrested for possession of spotted dicks!!!!!
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Just sorting out email to Bills with our choices.
Question do you want 1 or 3 portions of crispy squid ?
You're right, just the one portion please!
btw I'm the one that looks like the pic and with the funny accent :rofl;
Coincidentally, I also look like my avatar pic and have a funny accent. ;D
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I have fluffy red hair and funky green glasses!!!! 8)
PS. One portion of crispy squid duly noted!
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I have had confirmation back from Bills that they have our orders (Yay) and etickets for Punting and Stud Tour.
All we need now is to arrive next Friday/Saturday and have fun!!!
If anyone wants my mobile number please pm me.
NINE DAYS to go :bandance; :bandance; :bandance;
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WHOA :bandance; :bandance; :bandance; Only 5 days to go!
I have some very special news but am saving it for when we meet ;D
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WHOA :bandance; :bandance; :bandance; Only 5 days to go!
I have some very special news but am saving it for when we meet ;D
Oooooh, I don't wait for 'special news' easily! You'll have to forgive me if I skip the pleasantries and go straight to 'Hi, it's cariad, now spill it!' ;D You're not going to make us all wait until we're assembled at Bills, are you?
Cannot wait to hear what it is! :flower;
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I'm not pregnant - just sayin'
yeah it's getting a lot closer now. I'm flying out in about 30 hours from now so yeah it's all getting much closer.
will be great to meet everyone. it will be a lot of fun.
but as a reminder to those thinking I recognise people... i'm blind... and that's before we get to the pub!!! lol
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I have some very special news but am saving it for when we meet ;D
Is this the news you spilled the beans about on Fb?!
;D
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I have some very special news but am saving it for when we meet ;D
Is this the news you spilled the beans about on Fb?!
;D
SSSSShhhhhhhush ::)
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I have British pounds! I have my Oyster card!!! Now I just need to tidy up my house and pack, and I'll be ready to go!!!! Tomorrow I have a 90 minute massage after work, Wednesday morning I've scheduled a chiropractic adjustment, and I take off from Seattle late in the afternoon! I'm finally flying abroad!!!! YIPEEEEEEEE!!!!!! :bandance; :bandance; :bandance;
KarenInWA
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Got to say the weather forecast is looking a bit dodgy specially for Sunday morning (I see ~14 and some rain) ..... what are the terms with the punting?
Anyway weather aside it should be a great time :)
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Punting continues except in heavy rain :cheer:
I have to say we have only had very light showers over the last few days so fingers crossed and pack a hat!!!
They do supply cushions and umbrellas in the punts ;D
See those that make it on Friday in the HE Inn lounge/bar about 4.30-5pm onwards.
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I'm not pregnant - just sayin'
Well there goes my first guess!
Got to say the weather forecast is looking a bit dodgy specially for Sunday morning (I see ~14 and some rain) ..... what are the terms with the punting?
Anyway weather aside it should be a great time :)
We'll make the best of it and have a blast. Last year I went through the stress of planning an outdoor party in England. I constantly checked the weather in the week leading up to it and I also learnt that when they give a forecast such as '50% chance of rain' they only need a ridiculously small amount of rain to fulfill that prediction. It was something like it means there is a 50% chance that there will be 1/100th of an inch of rain during that time period. Also, they can really only predict weather with any accuracy four or less hours in advance, so anything could happen. (And that party was wonderful, and we had nothing but sunshine and warm temps.)
Looking forward to meeting/reconnecting with you all! :waving;
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Punting in the rain could be funny (as long as boat doesn't sink!)
I had visions of flowery dresses and champagne, maybe jeans b cowboy hats!!!
I shall pack both ;D
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Sugar, please can you PM me your mobile number?! Cheers, duck. Also, are you planning on meeting anywhere for a drink BEFORE Bill's? We can be in Cam at anytime after six (cheaper parking costs!). See you all on Saturday! Have a blast on Friday!
;D
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Wow :cheer: It's tomorrow!!! :cheer:
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Wow :cheer: It's tomorrow!!! :cheer:
Sweet! Although we have hit a minor snag. I did not deal with Romeo (cat) in a timely manner and while I have found a cattery to board him, they won't take him if we do not have his vaccination certificate. Neither Gwyn nor I can recall getting that from his previous people, but we have their contact details and will see what can be done. Otherwise, we may have no choice but to leave him on his own for roughly 48 hours. Not the end of the world, specially if we can leave a window open, but there are two concerns: He is a HUGE eater and drinker so not sure how to deal with the food water situation, because even though he wants to eat and drink constantly, he is also really fussy and insists on freshness with all his edibles. I'm sure you cat owners know what I'm talking about. Also, he gets lonely very easily. Oh, and if the litter tray were to get too dirty for His Majesty, not sure what would happen.
If we have to leave him on his own, we'll do it, but probably will leave Cambridge immediately after the punting to get home by mid-afternoon. Be a bit of a shame to feel rushed, but we do need to get back by early evening to prep the kids for school the next day anyhow.
See some of you tomorrow night I hope! :beer1;
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May have a solution to the cat issue. I put Gwyn on it because I was getting too overwhelmed with it, he was telling me what he had found out in discussing further with cattery, but was in the car and we got cut off. Should be home with news any minute.
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I leave my cat Smokey on her own for a weekend, if it isn't cold, outside with a bed in the shed with door wedged open. She will quite happily sleep in there and leave food in there and on garden table. we also leave a dog bowl size of rainwater (which she prefers to tap!) and she knows the neighbors leave outside food for their cats, so if she fancies a change!! she can hop over the fence :o
I have left her indoors during winter, with a litter tray, huge bowl of biscuits and dogbowl of water. She seemed quite content to have house to herself for 48 hours... without those pesky dogs.
You could fill up several bowls of water and put them in different places.
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I used to use some catbowl with flap which you can program to open after 24/48 hours (at pet shop)
All of you going tomorrow: have a great time, and we'll see you Saturday!!
Lots of love, Cas
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Thanks for the suggestions, you two. Amazingly I was able to schedule a last minute vaccination, and the woman who owns the cattery allowed us to bring him in because although he won't have proper immunity, the risk is to him not the other cats. He has faced that same risk just wandering around our neighbourhood. Wish the previous owners had been clearer about that, but it wouldn't have changed our decision to adopt him.
So, Romeo's at a luxury cattery right now, we are doing the million last minute tasks that need to be completed and then jumping in the car and heading east. Wish it weren't tipping it down right now, but hoping that the sky will get that out of its system and we can get a little bit of sunshine in Cam.
If we don't manage to make it to the bar tonight, see you at the stud tour! :beer1;
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We're here... and the rain is lovely....
:)
Can't wait to see everyone!
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Welcome back to England Rich, and so glad you've got Romeo sorted Carriad.
:yahoo;
No idea what time we'll arrive in Cam, but we'll definetely make it to Bills.
NB I sort of hoped the rain would stay around here, but hay hoe
See y'all tomorrow
:cheer:
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I want you all to know that I really wish I were going to be joining you there for the meet up. It would be so nice to see those I've already met and meet the others. Have a great weekend together and know that I'm toasting you all from currently rainy Toronto, Canada. :wine;
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Thanx Monrein, wish you were here too. I'm now on machine, still 2hrs15 to go, than we're on our way.
Karen how's your experience in light rain with some sun, so far? Aha I'll here soon.
Love, Cas
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So far so good... :waving;
Not much rain at all
We are all sexed out ;D been round Newmarket and The National Stud ... all that sex and money is mind boggling!
Time for afternoon nap and then get ready for Bills! :bandance;
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A very big thank you to Richard, Karen, Cariad and Gwyn and the boys, Cassandra and Tony, Poppy and Paul and my other half Drew for making it such an amazing weekend!
It was great from start to finish, hilarious at times but wonderful to connect and to join in with like minded people, from The meal at Bills, to the stud tour and the punting on the River Cam
and even down to the 6am fire alarm!!! Cheers and I hope someone has some good pictures to post on here... :clap; :clap; :clap;
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Thank YOU so much for organising the meet. Fantastic!!! And so sweet to meet your fiance Drew
Love, Cas
(I'm now going to look for: how to insert pictures)
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Karen, I didn't know you went! You go girl! I hope your flights are uneventful.
Have a great time. It is raining here too....
:flower;
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And thank YOU Sugar, for organising the whole thing. I loved meeting everyone.
Oh, and if anyone has any pictures and I'm on them, please don't post them. Cheers. ;D
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:pics; :pics; :pics; Please POST PHOTOS!
:bandance; :bandance;
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The best picture WOULD have been Richard in the Covering Shed (atThe National Stud) under the sign that read Teaser's Box!!!!
but he wouldn't let me 8)
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I'm sorry, I'm trying the pics, but file too big, and no idea how to solve that. I'll try again tomorrow. Sorry Pops you are on them, and as you look so lovely, that's gonna be the first ones to try. You look lovely, and so did everybody else.
Love, Cas
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I'm sorry, I'm trying the pics, but file too big, and no idea how to solve that. I'll try again tomorrow. Sorry Pops you are on them, and as you look so lovely, that's gonna be the first ones to try. You look lovely, and so did everybody else.
Love, Cas
Resizing photos:
If you have a PC try this free program http://download.cnet.com/Free-Picture-Resizer/3000-12511_4-10297789.html
It's easy on a Mac using preview - here are instructions http://www.wikihow.com/Resize-Pictures-(for-Macs)
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Safe journey to your respective destinations, Richard and Karen! Come back soon.... :)
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Hey Carriad did Gwyn not make any pics? I'm now in Portugal, and can't reduce the size of pics on my ipad. Please
Okarol sounds desperate. I'm back in sunny England in 2 weeks so I can reduce the pics size at home.
Love, Cas
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Dear All,
I am Iona's husband. Iona was admitted to Addenbrookes hospital on Friday 18th April with a severe stabbing pain in her abdomen. It was found that she had suffered a perforated bowel and she underwent major invasive surgery later that night the purpose of which was to join the tear. Thankfully the operation went well although only time will tell whether the join holds. She was subsequently moved to the critical care unit and then on to the high dependency unit. She is presently continuing to recover on the ward.
Iona and I were really looking forward to meeting you all at Bills on Saturday. Iona in particular was in her words "mortified" when she realised she would not be able to attend. She had been looking forward to it for sometime as you know. Unfortunately there is no internet connection on the ward and therefore she was unable to let you know. However I rang Bills at mid-day on Saturday and spoke to one of the waiters who confirmed that he would pass on the message that there would be two fewer guests arriving at the table booked for a large group that evening, although I did not know under which name the table had been booked.
We are both very sorry that food went to waste and that the group were charged for its preparation. However I hope on this occasion you will understand that we did all that we could do in what were and are very difficult circumstances for us both.
Kind Regards,
Iona's husband
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Oh dear Iona, and husband, I do hope that Iona recoveres completely. We did miss you, but the food didn't completely go to waste. Please pass our love, and best wishes on to Iona.
Lots of love, and strength, Cas
:flower;
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I would just like to reflect on our weekend and say how proud i was to be one of the twelve good men and women, sitting around that table.
It was a great weekend, to talk to others affected by kidney disease, share experiences and funny stories and to share in the hope for the
future. We are all living proof of life is for living still.
I think Richard and I worked out there were 27 kidneys sitting around our table of 12 in Bills Restaurant.
And it was heart warming to have 2 living donors and 2 very well-behaves junior members on "our team"!
The weekend went from The stud tour (lots of baby horses to ooh and ahh over as well as the polo crunching Amberley House) to our epic meal at
Bills with champagne and Richards speech!!!! followed by punting on Sunday morning which was excellent. We even managed to have a tour guide punter
who had nephrotic syndrome as a child!!!!
For those of us staying at the HI, we won't mention the Sunday morning 6am fire alarm or Drew and I getting stuck in the lift!!! We giggled a lot ::)
So to Cassie and Tony, Richard, Karen, Poppy and Blokey, Terri, Gywn and their two boys and of course, my other half Drew for making it such a great
weekend. Our sympathies and best wishes to Iona. Get well soon.
See you at the next one!!!!
:clap; :clap; :clap;
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Such a delightful weekend, just wish Iona had been well enough to join the party and I had been able to spend more time with Cas and Tony, a charming couple even from afar. :) Still, we're probably the closest to them of all the attendees, so will just have to make time to drive over for a coffee or lunch or whatever. Cannot believe the effort that Richard and Karen went to just to meet up with us for a few days (cheers for that) and you all would have been so proud of Poppy. She faced down her fear by walking in to that restaurant, and hopefully the next time she is in a similar situation it will be that much easier. Her husband and I had a brief chat about the joys of getting a kidney off a spouse. They make a lovely pair.
Oh, Iona, you poor thing! I hope you know that we completely understand and only wish for a complete and swift recovery for you. We found takers for most if not all of the extra food, so nothing to worry about there. Get better soon, and hope to meet you and your thoughtful husband in the not-too-distant future.
Huge thanks to Sugar for taking on the role of Social Director, and to Drew for tagging along to meet us all.
The four of us had a brilliant time (and Dyl got a smashing pair of inline skates at Billy's).
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I was very sorry that - due to my fragile health - I was unable to join you all at the Cambridge IHD meeting ...
Did anyone at the meeting make any pictures which they would like to share with us ?
Thank you from Kristina.
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Sorry Pops you are on them, and as you look so lovely, that's gonna be the first ones to try. You look lovely ...
I'm sure I do, but please don't post any with me on. :(
Thank you.
(Thank you for plying me with wine, btw! Made my evening that much sweeter! ;D)
Iona, so sorry to hear you were poorly. Best wishes for a speedy recovery. *huggles*
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Poppy it was really good to finally meet you, we must catch up next time we are in Cambridge for coffee or lunch :waving;
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Heard about this on another group.
Would have liked to attend, but was otherwise occupied with another event.
I host London Kidney Social on FB, and would like to try to get together a monthly London n Southeast group, just to socialise and have a bit of fun.
Let me know if anyone's interested:)
J
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Hello J.W.77 and thanks for your post.
Very interesting! Where in London do you meet and how often do you meet?
Does your group consist of people connected with dialysis/transplant/pre-dialysis
and/or is it connected to one hospital in London and/or are there patients who attend different hospitals and/or is it a charity?
Is it completely independent from any other forum/group ...
... and how long has it existed or has it just been formed?
Thanks from Kristina.
P.S. I might only be able to attend meetings in the distant future.
At the moment I am in the process to prepare for dialysis
and that might bring some changes which I have to get used to first...
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Poppy it was really good to finally meet you, we must catch up next time we are in Cambridge for coffee or lunch :waving;
And it was lovely to finally meet you too, Sugar! We shall indeedy have to meet up again!
;D
I host London Kidney Social on FB, and would like to try to get together a monthly London n Southeast group, just to socialise and have a bit of fun.
Let me know if anyone's interested:)
Sugar will be ... she's a wild one though and needs watching!
>:D
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sadly "The wild one" is back in hospital after a minor heart attack event on Sunday. Spent 2 days in CCU but doing okay now, back on renal ward.
Awaiting man from Papworth (or was it Delmonte) to say yes and proceed with angiogram on Monday morning. So fingers crossed they can
find the trouble and fix it soon.
I am far to busy being wild and wonderful to be chained to a hospital bed. Will let you know news.
:pray; :guitar: :waving;
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*huggles* Sugar.
:grouphug;
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Hello J.W.77 and thanks for your post.
Very interesting! Where in London do you meet and how often do you meet?
Does your group consist of people connected with dialysis/transplant/pre-dialysis
and/or is it connected to one hospital in London and/or are there patients who attend different hospitals and/or is it a charity?
Is it completely independent from any other forum/group ...
... and how long has it existed or has it just been formed?
Thanks from Kristina.
P.S. I might only be able to attend meetings in the distant future.
At the moment I am in the process to prepare for dialysis
and that might bring some changes which I have to get used to first...
I just missed the recent meeting as I was out of town doing conference stuff.
To answer your questions:)
So far I haven't managed to put together a meeting. Attempts where made near the London eye, where there's a reasonable pub, plus the riverside attraction and a pancake place across the road.
It fell through due to crap weather early in the year!
Its completely independent and only 'exisists' as a facebook group, although its aim is to welcome anyone under any hospital in London and Southeast or KPA.. KPA's have such a limited catchment area, so I thought, WHY NOT! ? I got the 'area idea' from another national charity I'm a member of and involved with, called the Outsiders Club, which hosts a monthly social near St Pauls.. (I'll be there tomorrow as it happens)
Its a kidney group, friends etc welcome:)
I think I set it up last year sometime, like one or 2 other groups I've set up, its a bit of an experiment:)
Hope that answers it.. It can be found here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LondonKidneySocial/
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Get well soon Sugar
Mm :flower;
Lots of love, Cas and Hubby
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Chins up, Sugar!
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Hello J.W.77 and thanks for your post.
Very interesting! Where in London do you meet and how often do you meet?
Does your group consist of people connected with dialysis/transplant/pre-dialysis
and/or is it connected to one hospital in London and/or are there patients who attend different hospitals and/or is it a charity?
Is it completely independent from any other forum/group ...
... and how long has it existed or has it just been formed?
Thanks from Kristina.
P.S. I might only be able to attend meetings in the distant future.
At the moment I am in the process to prepare for dialysis
and that might bring some changes which I have to get used to first...
I just missed the recent meeting as I was out of town doing conference stuff.
To answer your questions:)
So far I haven't managed to put together a meeting. Attempts where made near the London eye, where there's a reasonable pub, plus the riverside attraction and a pancake place across the road.
It fell through due to crap weather early in the year!
Its completely independent and only 'exisists' as a facebook group, although its aim is to welcome anyone under any hospital in London and Southeast or KPA.. KPA's have such a limited catchment area, so I thought, WHY NOT! ? I got the 'area idea' from another national charity I'm a member of and involved with, called the Outsiders Club, which hosts a monthly social near St Pauls.. (I'll be there tomorrow as it happens)
Its a kidney group, friends etc welcome:)
I think I set it up last year sometime, like one or 2 other groups I've set up, its a bit of an experiment:)
Hope that answers it.. It can be found here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LondonKidneySocial/
Hello and thanks for your information.
As soon as my health is a bit better sorted out, I shall come to the meetings. The meeting point is also very convenient and quite central.
... Right now I am just preparing myself to start with dialysis in the near future and have decided to “go for” haemodialysis, preferable NX Stage.
This means that I shall have a fistula in one of my arms. I have tried to exchange knowledge with people on dialysis who also play the piano...
...It was meant originally “only” as a method of rehabilitation after “my” stroke and it has developed to be my absolute favourite hobby...
... Because of my impending dialysis I try to figure out which arm to choose for the fistula to retain my ability to play the piano
with both arms and hands ... I am naturally left-handed, but was brought up to “conform” as a right-handed,
with the result that my arms and hands have almost developed to be ambidextrous...
...that makes it very difficult for me to make the right decision, which arm to select for the fistula...
Best wishes and perhaps see you soon, Kristina.
P.S. I am not on facebook ...
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OK so I'm back on planet IHD after my travels (and trevails) and recovery and work and all the rest. Just a few comments.
First if this was Facebook I owuld have "liked"most of the above posts. thank you all for your comments. about the event.
I can only speak for myself, but it was such a wonderful pleasure, in so many ways, for me to get over there to visit my old "stomping grounds" of Cambridge, but way more importantly to meet friends old (Cariad, Gwyn, Karen) and new-at least in person (Sugar & Drew, Dyl & Aidan the really great offspring of Cariad & Gwyn), Cas & Tony (thanks for the tea! :) ) and of course our dear Poppy and Paul!!!
that is the last time I am roped into standing up and giving a lame-ass speech!!! Seriously.. I got roped into it in 2011, and again in 2014. I don't DO speeches people.. just because I have a funny accent and now have the moniker of "the resident of the teaser box" seriously... it is so not my thing.
Having written that.. - as Sugar noted - to have our two wonderful live donors there, along with those of us who have received wonderful gifts, and our supporters/partners was so special. Gwyn and Poppy should never ever underestimate how wonderful they are and how they have changed lives - not just of their partners - but for so many other connected people - family/friends etc for their selfless acts. Bravo!
When, during the champagne (who kept filling my glass when I wanted to stick to the water?! :) ) soaked moments Sugar broached the subject of how many kidneys were at our table, it did really hit home all of us with the usual plus one or two, and those who had given. To all be able to be there, eating food, drinking and carrying on was really so special. Certainly I wouldn't have been able to be there were it not for the generosity of a family I'll never know.
Our little group symbolised, for me, one thing I think EPOman, IHD's founder (RIP) would have been so proud of - not only members and famlies getting together, but also the spirit shown of all of us to *live life!* and not let this disease get us down no matter where we are at. I so admired Casandra's spirit and determination, with Tony, to make this work for her - and to share thoughts on NXStage with Sugar and Drew - while those of us with happy beans could enjoy the chocolate pudding and extra drinks. Fantastic!
Poppy do not worry I do not have any pictures of you - I tried to take some but my camera refused. It kept flashing up messages saying "She's way too pretty to be on your phone sunshine!" - damn these smart phones are getting ever so smart. That it works for me at all is a miracle :)
To Iona - don't sweat it re the food and meal. We shared around and enjoyed it, and really it was fine. Honestly on the night our biggest concern was not knowing, and of course hoping it wasn't something like a hospital admission.. w understand you would have been there if you could.. It is very understandable. Don't worry, next year you can make up for it!!! :rofl;
Being back in the UK, which is always special for me as a "distant cousin" (and no, I don't have any convicts in my family tree) there's something special about the UK and it's people I adore, and our new, yet old, friends brought the spirit to life - no matter where they were from.
thank you one and all - and cheers again to Sugar for organising everything - it made it all go very smoothly and so much fun. Bravo!!
I definitely vote for another event next year - I heard Blackpool suggested. hey, works for me.. but let's face it when I travel over 13,000 miles to get there (and same back) it could be the isle of Skye and I'd be fine with it. All part of the adventure!
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Actually Rich I thought you made a wicked speech, and i too found the weekend very empowering :waving;
But I have a very intriguing idea for next year ... need to do some research before I toss the idea about :bandance; :bandance; :bandance;
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Stonehenge at Dawn? I'm in! :D
except for the last 2 weeks in April as I have a pre-existing date in Chicago (assuming mr kidney is all good) for a 20 year anniversary :)
otherwise count me in!
PS: thank you for the compliment re the speech but I am terrible at such things.. specially when put on the spot!
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Ack, you two are so coy! Intriguing meet ideas? 20-year anniversaries celebrated on the other side of the world? Tell me, tell me, tell me!!!!
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Hmmmmmmmmmm 8)
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Poppy do not worry I do not have any pictures of you - I tried to take some but my camera refused. It kept flashing up messages saying "She's way too pretty to be on your phone sunshine!" - damn these smart phones are getting ever so smart.
That made me laugh. Thanks.
And for what it's worth, your speech was brilliant and lovely and squishy.
;D
But I have a very intriguing idea for next year ... need to do some research before I toss the idea about :bandance; :bandance; :bandance;
You're so devilishly mysterious, Sugar!
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I do love to plan things Poppy ... be it Christmasses, Weddings or Lets get together in the UK 2015!!! :cheer:
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Hi all
I'm likely to be down in Plymouth for the day later in the year, and trying to put together a small gathering in July. June is very much taken up.
If anyones interested I can float some ideas around in a new thread! :)
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That made me laugh. Thanks.
And for what it's worth, your speech was brilliant and lovely and squishy.
awww you're welcome :)
"squishy"? oh dear I'm sorry if you had some sort of accident... (kidding!).
I look forward to more details about what may happen next year.
As for my Chicago "do" - it's another group meet up nothing too mysterious but nothing to do with kidney stuff... aviation geeks :)
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Does that make us kidney geeks??? :rofl; :rofl; :rofl;